A smart performance this afternoon saw CLAIM THE CROWN get off the mark at only the second attempt, having finished a promising third on debut.

Previous experience on the track earlier in the month at Newmarket equipped CLAIM THE CROWN well for his second run of his 2YO career, showing decent progression today to land the spoils in Betsi Golden Mile Novice Stakes. Joining the eventual long-time leader Udaberri in the early stages, Ray Dawson settled Claim the Crown in prime position, poised in second close up on Udaberri’s heels. Turning into the home straight Dawson pressed and Claim The Crown opened up, moving through easily to take up the running over one furlong out. Claim the Crown was always doing enough, coming home a stylish winner half a length from the second horse OUTBREAK from the Mark Johnston yard, with the long-time leader Udaberri in third.

A pleasing performance for the Teme Valley colt who has consistently shown a nice attitude on the track. The son of Acclamation travelled well through this contest on his All-Weather debut, finding enough improvement and he looks the type who should continue to progress.