HAMPSHIRE trainer Ralph Beckett won the Oaks this afternoon, but not in the way most people expected when Talent beat her better fancied stable companion Secret Gesture in emphatic style.
Secret Gesture, who had tracked the leaders on the fence, swept into the lead two furlongs out but then Richard Hughes brought Talent with a withering run on the outside well inside the final furlong to win going away.
Talent, whose grand dame Bireme had won the classic in 1980, gave Weywhill-based Beckett his second success in the race after Look Here had caused a 33/1 upset in 2008.
Talent also provided Hughes with his second classic win of the year, having scored on Sky Lantern for his father in law Richard Hannon in the 1000 Guineas earlier this month.
An emoptional Beckett said: "I can't believe it. What a day."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel