Thursday 15th April 2010
Elusive Pimpernel wins major trial
So stylish - Elusive Pimpernel romps away with the Racing Post breezeupbonus.com Craven Stakes. Picture: Chris Bourchier
ELUSIVE Pimpernel leapt towards the fore of the StanJames.com 2000 Guineas market with a stunning success in the Racing Post breezeupbonus.com Craven Stakes.
The John Dunlop-trained colt gave a dazzling display to score by four lengths from Dancing David.
Stan James reacted by slashing the power-packed bay to 5/1 from 16s for Saturday 1st May’s Classic back at the Rowley Mile racecourse.
The win also paid a compliment to his conqueror in the Racing Post Trophy, St Nicholas Abbey, who is now 9/4 for the 202nd renewal of the famous race.
Elusive Pimpernel, sent off a 10/11 shot for today’s Group 3 reappearance, was kept honest by jockey Ryan Moore, who began to niggle away at his mount a good way from home.
But he took off from over 2f out and headed his field approaching the furlong-pole.
He powered out of The Dip and soon drew clear to win by four lengths and delight Dunlop.
“He has always shown a lot of ability - he had a very good two-year-old career - and has continued to work well this spring," said the trainer.
“He was impressive today and really dug in. He has a wonderful attitude and a very good outlook in life.
“He won’t do an awful lot before the Guineas - he will probably just do a piece of work at the end of next week.”
Dancing David finished second with Critical Moment back in third.
The day’s other Group 3, the Weatherbys Bloodstock Racecard Earl Of Sefton Stakes, fell to Sri Putra.
Trainer Michael Jarvis’ charge emerged successful from a thrilling battle with Tranquil Tiger to win by a length.
Jarvis said of his 11/2 winner: “Fast ground is key to him and he has lots of options now, including the Singapore Cup.”
