Quest pips Special Duty to win Guineas

The legendary Henry Cecil caused a major upset in the StanJames.com 1000 Guineas at Newmarket when Jacqueline Quest pipped Special Duty in a thrilling climax.

The unfancied filly was sent off at 66-1 under Tom Queally and prevailed in a head-bobbing finish from the French-trained 9-2 favourite.

As the field split into two, it was those drawn low who held sway, with the first two pulling clear of Jim Bolger’s Gile Na Greine in third.

Queally made his bid for home two furlongs out on the daughter of Rock Of Gibraltar, whereas Stephane Pasquier bided his time on Special Duty.

The French challenger was bidding to give her trainer, Criquette Head-Maarek, a fourth victory in the race – and it looked likely as she made stealthy headway.

Special Duty just about hit the front, but Jacqueline Quest showed great determination to battle back and score by a nose, with Gile Na Greine another head away in third.

However, the front duo got very close and the stewards decided to take a look.

It was Cecil’s seventh victory in the Classic.