MARKAKOL scoots clear to get off the mark at the second time of asking, and EQUATORIAL makes it two on the bounce with an impressive victory at Chester!
MARKAKOL, who ran green on debut at Sandown a few weeks ago, made no mistake today for a taking victory at Newcastle races. Nicely placed by Andrea Atzeni to race with some cover, the son of Starspangledbanner had plenty left in the tank as he punched through at the 1f marker to take up the lead, running on for a confident 1¾L victory ahead of Charlie Fellowes' Tan Rapido.
Congratulations to owner Nurlan Bizakov.
Markakol shows a very nice turn of foot to get off the mark at @NewcastleRaces for @Atzenijockey and @varianstable...pic.twitter.com/lPpELuIrn9
— Sky Sports Racing (@SkySportsRacing) July 1, 2023
At Chester, EQUATORIAL made it two on the bounce, under a class ride from Franny Norton to overcome drama at the start. Having been inconvenienced early on by the loose-running Think Climate, the three-year-old Niarchos homebred was slotted in and settled towards the rear of the field. The inconvenience proved no barrier to success though - as they swung around the home bend EQUATORIAL launched his challenge, surging through and showing a smart turn of foot to win cosily.
Congratulations to connections Flaxman Stables Ireland.
Too good for them!
— At The Races (@AtTheRaces) July 1, 2023
Equatorial quickens away at @ChesterRaces under Franny Norton for @varianstable... pic.twitter.com/6rN0wvFh1D
We are saddened to report that SOLAR ORBITER unfortunately sustained a life-ending injury at Doncaster Racecourse. Our deepest sympathies go out to Flaxman Stables Ireland, and everyone connected with the horse. Thank you to the team at Doncaster Racecourse for handling the situation with efficiency and sensitivity.