Jaytee has to work hard for victory

The Gain Cup 2016, formerly known as the Guinness Trophy, got underway on Saturday night, and early evidence suggests it’s a high-class renewal. 

The standard was set by the Paul Hennessy-trained Jaytee Valencia, a classy and experienced tracker, who, nevertheless, was made to work hard in heat five.

The 6-4 favourite was first to show but Newlawn Peter turned close and put pressure on the leader all the way. The pacesetter had to be at his best to repel the persistent challenger by a length and a half, in a very smart 28.30.