Paul Hanagan rides like champion

Paul Hanagan's relentless march to the jockeys' championship was further bolstered with a Listed prize at Pontefract.

The northern-based rider pulled 11 wins clear of nearest pursuer Richard Hughes when Zenella scooped the totepool Silver Tankard Stakes over a mile.

"Paul gave her an absolutely tremendous ride and that's why he is going to be champion jockey," declared successful trainer Ann Duffield.

Even without the inevitable hyperbole, Duffield's praise was utterly justified.

One of Hanagan's biggest assets is his strength in a finish, but his work on Zenella (10-1) revolved chiefly around awareness and timing.

Come-from-behind tactics had yielded few dividends all afternoon, which was perhaps a reason why the jockey had striven to ensure the Kyllachy filly led from the outset. And while his cause may have been aided by a protracted barging match between Royal Exchange and Star Surprise, his partner was still good value for her length-and-three-quarters verdict.

A chilly autumnal afternoon in Yorkshire was also significant for Martin Lane, who shed his claim when Captain Royale won the first division of the totesuper7 Handicap. Lane, who is attached to Newmarket trainer David Simcock, showed trademark determination to get Tracy Waggott's chestnut home by a length.

"It's been a long time coming, so it's a great relief," said Lane. "It's been a good year and David has done very well for me. That's 38 winners for the season and the John Smith's Cup winner (Wigmore Hall) made the year."

Meanwhile, Frankie Dettori will ride Casamento in the Racing Post Trophy after the colt was supplemented for the Group 1 feature at Doncaster on Saturday. Trainer Michael Halford expressed his delight at having the Italian on board his Beresford Stakes winner, who is owned by Dettori's boss, Sheikh Mohammed.