Son Of Soldier Of Fortune Draws Clear In Maiden Hurdle

Wednesday saw Basford (6g Soldier Of Fortune - Be My Present, by Presenting) draw clear to gain a well-deserved win in the maiden hurdle at Newton Abbot.

The Jennie Candlish-trained bay was sent off favourite for the two mile and five furlong contest following a string of runner-up placings over various trips. Ridden prominently by Jonjo O’Neill Junior, he led from three out and drew clear from the final flight. The winning margin was eight lengths, as Bala Brook (Getaway) finished six lengths clear of the third.

Owned by Brian Verinder and Alan Baxter, Basford adds to a win in a bumper. Bred by James Gill, the son of Soldier Of Fortune provides a timely update for his full-brother catalogued in the Tattersalls Ireland Derby Sale.