Harris Tweed stays on strongly under Liam Jones to win by five lengths
PICTURE: Edward Whitaker (racingpost.com/photos)Harris Tweed powers to John Porter success
Report: Newbury, Saturday
Dubai Duty Free Finest Surprise Stakes (Registered As The John Porter Stakes) (Group 3) 1m4f, 4yo+
THE front-running Harris Tweed powered clear inside the final furlong to record victory in the hands of Liam Jones.
The William Haggas-trained five-year-old was made to battle by Allied Powers but he kept on relentlessly to score by five lengths.
Arctic Cosmos, winner of the Ladbrokes St Leger two years ago, was pulled up by William Buick.
Haggas said: "That's his first Group win and he's thoroughly deserved it. I'm absolutely thrilled and very pleased for the jockey who rode him to perfection - as they always do when they win."
The race had lost some of its allure before the start after the withdrawals of smart duo Modun and Fiorente.
Harris Tweed, having his first run since September, was quickly sent to the front and he set a decent pace throughout.
Arctic Cosmos, Bridge Of Gold and Allied Powers all waited in behind as the free-going Eye Of The Tiger, who got loose at the start, duelled with the leader.
As the field straightened for home, Harris Tweed kicked on and had most of his rivals in trouble.The exception was Allied Powers, who was still moving easily under a motionless Jamie Spencer.
Arctic Cosmos failed to pick up and he was quickly pulled up two furlongs out as Harris Tweed kept on doggedly.
Allied Powers could not get close to the leader as they drove towards the line and he had to settle for second ahead of Bridge Of Gold, the mount of Paul Hanagan.
Haggas said afterwards that Harris Tweed could step up in trip and run in the Yorkshire Cup. He also added that the winner is now qualified to run in the Melbourne Cup.
John Gosden, trainer of Arctic Cosmos, said: "It was the ground. He hated it. He hated it going down."
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