South Central storms to victory in Norfolk Stakes
Finally salvation for the punters. South Central was pretty solid in the betting after dazzling with a 13 length win at Carlisle on his only run and he was always up with the pace, virtually making all under Robert Winston.
With the stalls positioned in the middle for the 11-runner opener and the horses sticking pretty much dead centre, punters were made to wait to see if there was a stands' rail bias, which was vehemently denied yesterday by clerk of the course Chris Stickels.
The Royal Hunt Cup finish which was dominated by low numbers suggested otherwise.
South Central, ridden by Robert Winston, catches Spin Cycle to win the Norfolk Stakes at Royal Ascot
Spin Cycle, closes to the rails, came gamely in the closing stages but South Central showed commendable doggedness under pressure to prevail by a head as they crossed the line. Prolific was third and Flashmans Paper took fourth.
The winner is trained by Howard Johnson, who is primarily a jumps handler, and could now be quickly sold for a tidy sum.
Race 1 Ascot
Norfolk Stakes 5f
1st 11 South Central R Winston 11-4 fav
2nd 12 Spin Cycle T Durcan 7-1
3rd 8 Prolific R Hughes 6-1
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