Ponte one-two for in-form Johnston
Beforehand, punters may have been excused for thinking the race was something of a formality with Dubai’s Touch the well-supported 4-7 favourite in a field of four, but in the event the contest proved to be an enthralling one.
Kevin Darley set a decent gallop aboard stablemate Armigerent and opened up a decent lead as the runners turned for home.
Joe Fanning conjured a power-packed finish from Dubai’s Touch, however, galvanising the Dr Fong colt to snatch victory by the narrowest of margins.
Johnston explained: “He’s done well to win because it was always going to be a difficult race tactically.
“Dubai’s Touch has shown kinks in his previous races at Ayr and he still ran green so there is more to come.
“Armigerent has entries in maidens and I don’t know where Dubai’s Touch will go next as he’s had two quick runs now,” he added.
Darley wasted no time in going one better when partnering 5-2 favourite Folga to victory in the following race – the E.B.F. Park Suite Fillies’ Handicap Stakes.
He was always prominent aboard James Given’s filly, and when he asked her for maximum effort approaching the distance she responded gamely to fight off 15-2 chance Riquewihr by a length and three quarters.
A delighted Given suggested his charge is now likely to take her chance in better company.
“She’s just ground them out of it – the firm ground wasn’t a problem to her,” he explained.
“We were concerned about the stiffness of the six but she handled it well.
“She is entered in a Listed race at Ayr on Sunday over five furlongs – I’m not sure that is ideal but it would be great to get some black type for her as she has won five races now.
“She’ll make a nice broodmare but hopefully not for a few years!” he laughed.
