Fahey's Ranger stuns better-fancied rivals

In a race where there were four British Classic entries market activity for Newmarket and Epsom was anticipated for this intriguing conditions race, but in the end it was Betfred Dante Stakes entry Forest Ranger who came from last to first to cause an upset.

The Richard Fahey-trained colt won comfortably at 25-1 under Tony Hamilton to beat Syphax and 100-30 favourite Utmost by upwards of two and three-quarter lengths.

This was another good result on the day for Fahey following his victory with Kimberella on in the all-weather finals card at Lingfield, but it was also a race in which many flattered to deceive. Classic entrants Leshlaa and South Seas both travelled beautifully just off the leaders but they found little when push came to shove as the winner comfortably picked them off before showing a lovely languid stride to gallop clear.

There was general delight from the winning rider, but he was by no means surprised about one whom he sees as a fine future prospect.

"It was never in doubt really," said Hamilton. "I always thought I was going to win. I probably got there a little too soon as he was dossing in front, but he's still learning. He did it nicely.

"It's not a surprise at all - he's a horse we do like and has been working nicely, and he's still a big baby so there will be more to come. He's in the Dante and the German Guineas - I don't know which way they're thinking of going but it's a nice problem to have."

He added: "He's a lovely horse going forward and it's great the Steels have got a good one for the future as they have been fantastic supporters of the yard."

How good a race this is remains open to question so Forest Ranger still has an awful lot to do to be a contender at York next month, although on this evidence the Knavesmire should suit.

Syphax could reoppose at York, as trainer Kevin Ryan's daughter Amy said: "It was a great run and we're all pleased with him as he will come on for that. He's still a big baby, learning all the time. William [Buick] said to stick to the plan so we will most likely go for the Dante next."

Results and analysis