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Hurricane Lane storms to victory in G2 Dante Stakes

Racenews

Unbeaten colt Hurricane Lane secured his place in this year’s Derby with an impressive display in the G2 Dante Stakes at York, UK, on Thursday, 13 May.

The Charlie Appleby-trained three-year-old, making his Pattern-race debut on the back of a comfortable win in a Newbury conditions race, broke on terms and soon disputed second as Roman Empire strode on into an uncontested lead.

Roman Empire kicked on at the top of the straight and opened up a six-length advantage passing the two-furlong pole before fading as Hurricane Lane and Megallan moved up to challenge entering the final furlong.

Hurricane Lane continued to stay on powerfully for William Buick, establishing a narrow lead over Megallan half a furlong from home before asserting in the closing stages for a three-quarter length success in the extended 10-furlong contest.

Charlie Appleby said: “We are delighted with Hurricane Lane, who has travelled and stayed well. He has galloped through the line strongly today and shown plenty of stamina, so he hopefully ticks a lot of boxes for the Derby.

“I have spoken to His Highness Sheikh Mohammed and he was also pleased. Provided Hurricane Lane comes out this race fit and well, the Derby is the obvious next target.”

William Buick said: “I was very pleased with Hurricane Lane. This is usually the most important trial and it’s not very often that you get a G1 winner like Gear Up in the race. It looked like a strong renewal and this race normally throws up a very live Derby candidate.

“It was only Hurricane Lane’s third run, so he is still learning on the job. He jumped out and we got ourselves a nice position where I could leave him alone and build him up how I wanted to.

“For a trial, it was a truly run race – I guess the first half might have been a bit steady – but this horse will benefit from a mile and a half. He has a lovely attitude and has shown in his last two runs how he loves nothing more than a battle on his hands. He goes through the gears in his own time but does it quickly and answers every call.

“He will hopefully go to the Derby with good credentials. He has done nothing but improve and has come out of this important test with flying colours. He is learning on the job but has done everything a little bit smoother and a little bit quicker each time he has run.”