Fyodor fires for Haggas

Fyodor ended a frustrating losing run when coming out on top in a thrilling conclusion to the Betfredcasino Handicap at Haydock.

Trained by William Haggas, the seven-year-old had not hit the target for over two years but was transformed by the application of a first-time visor in the five-furlong dash.

Having burst to the front at around the one-furlong pole, supporters of the 8-1 chance suffered a tense finish as Intrepid Jack came with a storming late run.

However, the line just came in time for Fyodor, who hung on by a diminishing nose.

Maureen Haggas, wife of the winning trainer, said: “It’s been quite a long time coming but to be fair to him fast ground is important and we have not had any really fast ground for him.

“The visor has obviously helped. We have no plans at the moment but we will stick to five furlongs and the visor, the stiff six of the Wokingham at Royal Ascot might not be ideal.”