Back To Back Group 3 Wins For Son Of Mastercraftsman

The progressive Extra Elusive (5g Mastercraftsman - Nessina, by Hennesy) recorded back-to-back Group 3 victories when taking the Winter Hill Stakes at Windsor on Saturday.

Twice second at Listed level last season, the Roger Charlton-trained chesnut ran out a clear winner of the Rose Of Lancaster Stakes last time out and carried a penalty as a result on Saturday. Imad Al Sagar’s retained rider Hollie Doyle, who celebrated a five-time on the card, rode him to track the leaders and asked him to challenge three furlongs out. Ridden a furlong later, he led approaching the final furlong and kept on strongly to deny the favourite Fox Chairman by a length.

Charlton was delighted with his charge’s performance and later said, “It wouldn't be his choice of ground or choice of tracks, but he did it well and I think it's the best performance Extra Elusive has put up.” He added that the Group 1 Champion Stakes and Saudi Cup were possible targets for the winner.

Extra Elusive was bred by Al Sagar in partnership with Saleh Al Homaizi and is a half-brother to Gimcrack Stakes victor Ajaya. He is one of 45 Group winners by Castle Hyde Stud sire Mastercraftsman.