Venice to aim higher

Duke Of Venice will have his sights raised after winning at Doncaster yesterday on his first outing in the Godolphin colours.

The Derby entry had to work harder than seemed likely to land the Doncaster Racecourse Sponsorship Club Conditions Stakes.

The former Mark Johnston-trained three-year-old had finished a well-beaten second to UltimateBet.com 2000 Guineas runner-up Snow Ridge in a Godolphin trial in Dubai last month.

He had to keep up his work to beat Happy Crusader in yesterday’s mile contest.

Frankie Dettori was exuding confidence on the 4-6 favourite as he drew level at the two pole, but Happy Crusader battled on and the jockey had to get to work to win by a length and three-quarters.

Trainer Saeed bin Suroor told the Godolphin website: “Duke Of Venice won well and this was a nice race for him. He needs to settle, being a bit nervous, and will improve for the run.

“We will aim him at a better race next time out.”