All smiles for Lucy Burke as her pride and joy Laurens proves different class

Karl Burke and jockey PJ McDonald could do nothing but smile after Laurens put on a powerful demonstration in claiming a sixth Group 1 success in the Prix Rothschild.

But nobody's happiness could eclipse that of Burke's daughter Lucy, who looks after Laurens and is her regular work partner up the Middleham gallops.

"This race is all down to Lucy and the staff at home because after the niggles Lucy was in bits over the last six weeks," said Karl Burke. "They've worked very hard, as have the vets but this one's for Lucy."

As for the lady that knows Laurens better than anyone, Lucy Burke was confident that what she was feeling beneath her in the mornings was the cue for a big performance.

Lucy Burke said: "She's very laid back in herself but when it comes to work days she's very competitive.

"I know she makes the running in her races but we drop her in behind and we have to give the lead horse a six-length start just to get her to do a bit of work.

"She powers up there and then just does enough in front. Like you saw today she just says 'I've done enough.'"

The Spigot Lodge team have been responsible for six individual Group 1 winners but Lucy Burke is in no doubt where Laurens sits in terms of her own personal involvement.

"I've been lucky to ride some nice horses but nothing like her. She's completely different.

"My sister [Kelly] used to ride Lord Shanakill and I was lucky enough to sit on him. I know it sounds unfair on the others but she just feels completely different class."

bet365 join the Racing Post app. You can bet directly with bet365 on the Racing Post iOS app – to download the latest must-have free app click here