Russian Soul (centre) is ridden out by Shane Foley to beat Yuften (far side) and Togoville© Photo Healy Racing
Russian Soul recorded his tenth career success as he just got the better of Yuften in the BWG Food Races.
Successful on his penultimate start over the course and distance last month, the eight-year-old son of Invincible Spirit finished last of ten in a Listed race at Lingfield on his most recent start.
Back up to six furlongs this evening he was sent off the 5/2 second favourite under Shane Foley.
Settled in a share of third he was ridden to challenge from two furlongs out, getting to the front inside the final furlong before just holding off Yuften by a head.
The runner-up was as short as 2/1 last night but he proved friendless with punters and was returned an 11/2 chance under Connor King for Johnny Murtagh. Togoville was sent off the 13/8 favourite and he finished three parts of a length back in third.
Mick Halford said afterwards: "You have to be patient with him going to the start but he's in more of a hurry to come back.
"He loves it around here and has been a great servant. He ran to the ounce with the other horse (Togoville) and you could set your clock by him, especially around here.
"It's great to have these conditions races. They are good horses and Johnny's horse is a smart horse coming back so it's great to have opportunities for them.
"We took him to Lingfield but five was a bit quick and took him out of his comfort zone. He was flying hitting the line though.
"He owes us nothing."
Additional reporting by Gary Carson
