Impressive Newcomer Becomes Latest Winner By Soldier Of Fortune

Best Pal (4g Soldier Of Fortune - Shapley Shadow, by Heron Island) continued a fine start by Soldier Of Fortune’s latest crop of four-year-olds when drawing clear on debut at Larkhill point-to-point.

Partnered by James King, the Kieran Price-trained bay made all the running in the flat race for four, five and six-year-olds and extended his advantage from two furlongs out. Soon clear, he won by eight lengths with ease.

Owned by Mr J Rees, Best Pal becomes the first winner out of Shapley Shadow, herself a half-sister to useful hurdler Knockgraffon King. He hails from the first crop by Soldier Of Fortune since his move to the Beeches Stud, as does unbeaten Listed winner Belle Metal, Colin Bowe’s debut scorer North Of Nashville and impressive bumper winner Derrylinda.