Dewhurst Stakes: Shadow of Light wins at Newmarket

Shadow of Light, ridden by William Buick, surged from behind to take victory in the Dewhurst Stakes at Newmarket.

The performance continued an impressive run of form for Shadow of Light following a win in the six-furlong Group One Middle Park Stakes last month.

Pre-race favourite The Lion in Winter did not compete in the feature race for two-year-olds on Saturday because of a reported bruised foot.

After a fast start to the seven-furlong race, Ryan Moore manoeuvred Expanded towards the side rail, followed by Ancient Truth, who was ridden by James Doyle.

The pair seemed to be heading towards a straight fight to the line, but Shadow of Light emerged as a contender from the centre of the track and snatched victory.

Speaking to ITV, jockey Buick said: “From the get-go we had a tail to follow and then there was a separation.

“I was just amazed how competitive he raced by himself and then when he joined the others he found another gear.

“It was a fantastic performance. He showed a lot of courage and class because it was made difficult for him.”

Later, Alphonse Le Grande beat Manxman in a photo finish to win the Cesarewitch Handicap, although the result could be overturned next week.

Ridden by Jamie Powell, Alphonse Le Grande ran hard against the side rail closest to the stand, while Sean Bowen on Manxman also finished strongly on the other side.

After a wait for the judges’ final announcement, Alphonse Le Grande was declared the winner by the minimum margin of a nose.

It remains to be seen whether the result stands permanently.

Powell appeared to use his whip 10 times, which is four above the allowed level.

The British Horseracing Authority whip review committee will address the matter on Tuesday and its findings could result in a disqualification.