Trumpet Major is now as short as 6-1 for the Qipco 2,000 Guineas
PICTURE: Edward Whitaker (racingpost.com/photos)Trumpet Major blows apart Craven field
Report: Newmarket, Thursday
Novae Bloodstock Insurance Craven Stakes (Group 3) 1m, 3yo colts & geldings
TRUMPET MAJOR scooted home to win the Craven Stakes for Richard Hannon and Ryan Moore by five lengths from stablemate Crius.
Moore's mount, who returned at 9-2, needed to be rousted along after halfway but picked up in stunning fashion to storm clear and put himself firmly in the Qipco 2,000 Guineas frame.
Coral made him 6-1 third favourite, but BetVictor, Ladbrokes and Boylesports were more circumspect in their assessment, quoting him at double that price for the Classic back on the Rowley Mile on May 5.
Trumpet Major drifted right after taking the lead in the Craven a furlong and a half out but that did not prevent himfrom recording his fourth success and boost the Dewhurst form in the process, a race in which he was fifth behind Parish Hall.
The trainer's son and assistant Richard Hannon jnr said: "We are very pleased. We didn't think he could win a Craven under a 3lb penalty and didn't know if he would like the ground.
"I thought he was running horrible for a moment but Ryan got after him and he's done it very well."
He added: "He's had only one racecourse gallop, about ten days ago, and he'll definitely improve."
Ryan Moore: impressed by winner
PICTURE: Mark CranhamMoore told Racing UK: "He's twice the horse he was last year, he's really done well over the winter and he's filled out.
"They went a good gallop and the field was sorted out by halfway. He probablyhit the front too soon but it was a good performance."
He added: "He'll definitely have a chance in the Guineas but there may be a horse with a bit more foot in there. He might improve as he goes further."
Crius (4-1) ran well under Pat Dobbs, with Eastern Sun (6-1) a further length and half back in third. The 7-2 favourite Mighty Ambition was fifth of the 12 runners under Frankie Dettori.
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