Dettori clocks up tenth century
The Italian had to work hard to get the John Gosden-trained juvenile up by a head from 8-1 shot Pergolacha in the EBF Bet Direct on 0800 32 93 93 Maiden Stakes.
Despite being off the bridle before turning into the straight, Dettori did not let up on the Kingmambo filly, who was returned the 5-2 favourite.
Dettori rode a 6-1 double aboard Darting and Sentry at the Surrey track on Wednesday leaving him one short of his ton.
Dettori celebrated his feat by making his usual flying dismount and then spraying the crowd with champagne provided by Arena, the track’s owners.
“I am so relieved that is over,” said Dettori. “I had visions of going through today and not doing it, then having to go to Wolverhampton on a Saturday night to get there.
“When Mr Gosden told me he was coming here today I knew he must have fancied his filly a bit, and she did it well. Now it will be a holiday for my family and I in Dubai.
“It is great to have done it with the help of the trainer, a great friend, as is the filly’s owner, George Strawbridge, as well.
“Although this has not been a vintage year for me it has ended up all right.”
It was Dettori’s first 100 since 1999.
