Juddmonte number one Colin Keane heading to Royal Ascot in fine form as Town And Country leaves it late in Scurry Stakes

Town And Country edged out an enthralling Scurry Stakes to provide Colin Keane with a winner on his first ride at the track.

Keane, who registered his sixth victory since Wednesday, left it late aboard the Henry de Bromhead-trained filly to nail Hold A Dream and Star Of Mehmas by a short-head.

Speaking to Racing TV, Keane said: "She was keen. I was told at home she can be, but I didn't think she'd be that bad. She ran into a couple of pockets, but she only got out in the last half-furlong and she did well to win."

It was Town And Country's second outing outside of Ireland and the six-time Irish champion jockey is confident she can improve in stronger races after landing the Listed contest.

Keane added: "I think when she gets used to sprinting, the quicker they go the better as she can relax, and then we'll see the best of her. I think she can win in Group company."

Punters rewarded

Gladius made amends with favourite backers when taking the competitive 1m1f handicap under Oisin Murphy.

The three-year-old was turned over at odds of 1-4 in a Salisbury novice event last month but punters were still keen to side with him on his handicap debut and he duly obliged at 6-4, getting the better of Godolphin's Watching Stars.

"He won on his debut and did lots of nice things," said Murphy. "He's likeable and hopefully he'll go the right way."

Murphy and trainer Andrew Balding doubled up with Dance In The Storm, another handicap debutante, in the 7f handicap. 

Charging Lion

Jack Channon won with his only runner at Sandown on Friday and achieved the same feat a day later as Urban Lion took a messy running of the mile handicap.

Samuel Colt stumbled out of stalls, Balmacara was free in front and Classic found trouble in running. In the end it was Edward Greatrex who took advantage, riding a canny race down the outside and getting first run on the 11-8 favourite Classic.

It was an across-the-card double for Channon after Pomme Pomme completed a four-timer at Bath.

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