Durocell takes control of Hot Line Stakes field

RE-ENERGISED AFTER being caught by the colt ROULETTE BOSS at seven and a half furlongs, speedy DUROCELL proved elusive in yesterday’s six-furlong Hot Line Stakes for three-year-old fillies, staying on strongly to beat 7-5 favourite, ROYAL ASH.

Though returning 18lb heavier in the first prep race for the 1000 Guineas, DUROCELL grabbed the lead early from ACKNOWLEDGEME to control the pace ahead of SPEEDIE HARE.

ROYAL ASH swooped into contention entering the stretch run, improving into second past SPEEDIE HARE. However, a charged-up DUROCELL found extra to win at odds of 3-1 with bustling Bebeto Harvey aboard for trainer Patrick Fong.

ALL FOR LOVE closed from off the pace for third, suggesting she will enjoy other upcoming fillies’ Guineas prep races such as the Thornbird Stakes at seven furlongs and the Portmore at seven and a half.

Meanwhile, champion jockey Dane Dawkins rode a three-timer to move into third place in the riders’ standings on 12 wins, three behind leader Reyan Lewis.

Dawkins opened the nine-card with a quick double, booting home 4-1 chance LOVE DUB for Gary Subratie and 2-5 chalk GREEN GOLD RUSH.

Dawkins closed a jockey-trainer double and his three-timer aboard Subratie’s SISTREN TREASURE in the seventh at nine furlongs and 25 yards, attacking OUTBIDDER from along the rail in the stretch run.

Racing continues this afternoon with a nine-race programme, featuring the Sir Howard Stakes for colts and geldings, preparing for the 2000 Guineas.