Hawkbill touched off in G1 Northern Dancer Turf Stakes

Hawkbill was an unlucky loser in the G1 Northern Dancer Turf Stakes over a mile and a half at Woodbine, Canada on Saturday, September 16.

Trained by Charlie Appleby and partnered by Colm O’Donoghue, the four-year-old Kitten’s Joy colt was slightly slow into stride from the outside stall among the eight runners.

But he recovered and was soon back in his usual position out in front. 

Hawkbill had a two-length advantage for most of the race and went for home turning into the straight.

He was challenged on the outside inside the furlong by Johnny Bear but rallied and looked like he would hold on, only to be pipped on the post by an official head.

The winner set a time of 2m 27.30s on the firm going.

Colm O’Donoghue commented: “Hawkbill travelled well and moved great. He hit the line strong and it was a bob of the heads, and unfortunately, it didn't go his way. 

“The other horse coming encouraged him to go forward again. I thought Hawkbill would have held on, but that’s how it goes.”