Victory Bond strikes in Easter Classic to complete double for Haggas and Doyle

Victory Bond won the Easter Classic in smooth style to provide trainer William Haggas and jockey James Doyle with a double on the finals' day card.

The pair, who combined to win the Lincoln with Addeybb last Saturday, also struck with Diagnostic in the fillies' and mares' contest.

Maureen Haggas, wife of William, said:"I'm thrilled to bits with him. He's a grand horse. He had a good draw and was in really good form and it's fantastic. He travelled today and is a pleasure to train."

Sent off as the 3-1 joint-favourite, Victory Bond was held up in mid-division by Doyle and could be seen travelling strongly towards the inside as the field swung for home.

Victory Bond, who still hadn't been fully asked for his effort, picked up the running as they passed the furlong pole and was always holding the late challenge of Winter Derby winner Master The World, who failed by half a length. Abe Lincoln stayed on well to grab third.

Doyle, who remains retained by Godolphin, will jet out to Dubai to take two rides for Charlie Appleby at Meydan on Saturday. Of Victory Bond's success, he said: "They went a nice even pace and we got the splits in the home straight. I didn't have to ask him too many questions until the furlong pole when he quickened up well - it was a good performance.

"It could not have panned out any better and he came through to win in dominant fashion. I knew Master The World would be finishing, but it was very easy."

This race report is being updated and more news will follow shortly