Market Rasen: The Flier Begley defies rise in handicap mark to set up tilt at Summer Plate

The Flier Begley continued his fine form with a game performance to win the feature Summer Plate Trial Handicap Chase.

The ten-year-old was up 8lb for his last-time-out success at Haydock in April – his second victory of the year – but that did not stop him back at a happy hunting ground. Jack Hogan managed to cajole his mount home to win by a neck from favourite Vintage Fizz.

The rider told Racing TV: "He dug deep when I needed him to and thankfully he's a stayer. I was worried the rise in the handicap might catch him out, but he proved me wrong,.

"He's been a revelation since last year. We've won some nice pots along the way and I think Gary [Hanmer, trainer] has found the key to him now, keeping him fresh and well. Some of these older horses enjoy being in a smaller yard."

The Flier Begley now looks likely to seek a third course victory of 2025 in the Summer Plate itself on July 19.

Hogan added: "I think he'll have a good chance in that, but it depends what the handicapper does. I said to the owners if I win today it will have to be by the smallest of margins!"

Course specialist

Game Beaaa registered her third course-and-distance win by a dazzling 13 lengths for owners Cherrybank Crusaders, trainer Daragh Bourke and rider Danny McMenamin in the 2m½f mares' handicap hurdle.

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