Straightforward win for Bless Him after trail of lucky breaks

Luck, the aptly-named Bless Him had had bucket loads of it before the stalls opened for one of the most competitive mile races of the summer but not a jot of it was needed in the race itself.

Just as well, as connections had used up all their good fortune with their runner just sneaking into the field having only been a reserve after declarations on Tuesday. Then fate played a big hand. Ascot's straight course specialist Jamie Spencer was also otherwise engaged, but when his mount Gilgamesh was found to be lame the stars aligned.

Spencer, who was following up on his victory with Defrocked in this race 12 months ago, was quick to thank his weighing-room friend Martin Harley for agreeing to step aside after trainer David Simcock - enjoying a welcome change of luck following the disappointments Lightning Spear and Sheikhzayedroad - discussed plans with owner Sheikh Fahad overnight.

"I had wanted to ride Bless Him but he wasn't getting into the race," said Spencer. "Martin said I could ride him and these things happen - I got suspended and he got on Sheikhzayedroad last year."

After racing on Wednesday Bless Him's draw in three would have been considered an anchor, but after Sioux Nation had successfully tracked home on the far side in the opening Norfolk eight of the runners gave it a go from their single-figure draws here and produced the first three home.

Bless Him burst through under Spencer a furlong out and held the late thrust of Ronald R, who was trying to give his connections a quickfire double after Big Orange's Gold Cup heroics. But instead it was Spencer on repeat following his Sandringham win over the course and distance to finish Wednesday's racing.

Indian Dandy and his connections were ruing their luck as Tom Queally brought him with a strong late run to win the 21-runner race on the stands' side but claim only fourth as Tricorn completed the low-drawn tricast.

Success was also reward for Simcock's patience with a horse who has his quirks on the track despite being straightforward at home. Indeed it had not been easy for the son of Sea The Stars to get into this contest following his travails at Doncaster and Goodwood last month. In the end an official mark of 90 was just right.

Who said luck plays no part in the racing game.

Britannia result and analysis