Versatile Mixboy makes all to repeat last year's victory

A 9lb higher mark and a stern challenge from an in-form, unexposed rival was not enough to stop the versatile Mixboy from following up last year's win in the 1m4f handicap.

This was Mixboy's second visit to Catterick and the sharp track clearly plays to the strengths of the enthusiastic grey, who was sent straight into the lead by Joe Fanning and responded gamely when challenged by the favourite Illustrissime.

The Keith Dalgleish-trained Mixboy, a winner over hurdles last time, pulled out plenty close home to triumph by half a length, with the pair eight lengths clear.