Fahy drives Prince of Johanne to shock success

Tom Tate’s charge came down the stands side a furlong out as John Fahy drove him out to prevail in the 32-runner field.

Stevie Thunder claimed second, with Proponent third and veteran Nanton finishing fast for fourth. Favourite Man Of Action was unplaced in a race full of hard-luck stories.

Fahy said: “He’s really tough. The ground has been key to him – he handled the quick ground well.”

The field split into two big groups from the off with those drawn high, including Prince Of Johanne, who broke from stall 31, sticking to the near side. Many of the fancied runners, including Man Of Action, were in the group racing down the centre of the track and it looked to be pretty even at halfway.

However, the runners started to converge as the race began in earnest and Fahy was keen to keep out of trouble and set sail for home.

A furlong out it looked as though he may be swamped, but Prince Of Johanne was game for the challenge and held on by a length and three-quarters. Tate, who had not sent out a winner for 71 days, said: “I thought he came too soon but he kept it up.

“I was thinking the handicapper may have got to grips with him but he’s always very consistent and has run nothing but good races – he needs fast ground.

“It’s a great day. I could tell you I’d laid him out for this all season but it wouldn’t be true. He’s been consistent but the ground has really helped him and John was very confident and courageous.”