Promising Fastnet Rock Colt Gets Off The Mark

Friday saw the Charlie Fellowes-trained London Arch (3c Fastnet Rock - Mount Crystal, by Montjeu) justify favoritism in the mile Novice Stakes at Newcastle.

A promising second on debut last month, he was ridden close to the pace by Ben Curtis and was ridden to lead approaching the two furlong market. Briefly headed over a furlong out, he battled back to regain the advantage and won by a length and a half.

Owned by P Hickman, G Johns and D King, London Arch was bought by Crispin Estates for 200,000gns as a yearling, having cost 110,000gns as a foal. Bred by the Pocock family, the son of Fastnet Rock is a half-brother to two useful winners by Zoffany.