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| Staff Writer |
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In an impressive feat, Spirit Dancer effortlessly transitioned into pattern class and emerged victorious at the Gr.3 Strensall Stakes held in York.
Richard Fahey's trained horse had already won three handicaps at the venue, and on Saturday, he showcased his formidable skills yet again as he smoothly navigated through the course. Spirit Dancer remained dominant throughout the race and was in control of the group racing stands' side two furlongs from home.
However, Flight Path was slightly ahead and racing solo closer to the inside rail. But, as the race progressed, Spirit Dancer surged forward and crossed the finish line first, one length ahead of El Drama who finished second. The favorite Nostrum, who raced prominently, fell behind and stopped abruptly before the two furlong pole. Ryan Moore, the jockey, reported afterward that the colt never felt comfortable. It was later discovered that the horse was lame on his left-hind leg.
"Horses for courses, a lot of people say it, but he just loves this place," Fahey told ITV Racing.
"At the moment he loves everywhere though, he won at Windsor last time, he's in the form of his life and I'm delighted for Sir Alex Ferguson, Ged Mason and their team. They've been very patient with him.
"He's quite a big horse and was a little immature but he's grown into the finished article now and is improving all the time.
"I have the Bahrain Trophy in mind for him now, it's a US$1million race. I had it in mind before today and that will definitely be one of his targets."