Report: Salisbury, Thursday

totepool.com Sovereign Stakes (Group 3) 1m, 3yo+ colts & geldings

Andrew Balding landed his third success in this race, and his second in two years, after 11-4 shot Tullius, ridden by Jimmy Fortune, held off the gambled-on Sovereign Debt by half a length.

The winner's stablemate Highland Knight, who set a steady pace under David Probert, faded into third.

The 15-8 favourite Trade Commissioner travelled well enough but was well beaten.
 
Tullius, who was winning a Group race for the first time, has looked a reformed character for his new yard this season, having moved from Peter Winkworth's to Balding this season. It was the gelding's fourth victory for the master of Kingsclere and Balding was delighted for the owners.

“The Kennet Valley Thoroughbreds consistently have good winners in good races from a successful small syndicate,” he said.

Of the winner, Balding added: “He looked to have a great chance with the ground as it is and he was always doing just enough. We might look at the Celebration Mile a week on Saturday at Goodwood as he is tough as old boots.”