Diamond Rain sparkles on return at Haydock Park

Lightly raced filly Diamond Rain booked a step back up to Group company with a swooping victory in the Listed Hedge Of Oak Stakes at Haydock Park, UK, on Saturday, 24 May.

Kicking off her four-year-old season, the daughter of Shamardal soon disputed third on the inside of Ambiente Amigo as Place Of Safety and Running Lion led the seven runners.

Diamond Rain lost her position approaching the final three furlongs but rallied soon after and powered home after being switched out by William Buick over a furlong out.

The Charlie Appleby-trained filly headed Running Lion inside the final half-furlong before going away to score by a length and three-quarters, with another length back to Place Of Safety in third.

William Buick said: “Diamond Rain is a beauty! It’s lovely to get her back on track after a slightly interrupted season last year. She has always shown class and is a sweetheart. I was really pleased with how she did it today and it sets her up lovely for the rest of the season.

“She got a bit lost when the pace quickened just over three furlongs out, but she found he top gear and was well on top at the line. I think she will improve for this.”