Gimcrack report: Sands Of Mali causes 14-1 upset on Knavesmire
By Racing TV
Last Updated: Tue 5 Dec 2023
Watch the closing stages of the Al Basti Equiworld Gimcrack Stakes won by Sands Of Mali at York on Saturday and reaction from Richard Fahey.
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Sands Of Mali caused a 14-1 surprise to give trainer Richard Fahey his first win in the Al Basti Equiworld Gimcrack Stakes.
The son of Panis stepped up considerably on his Nottingham success three weeks ago to land the Group Two prize.
Paul Hanagan had him smartly out of the stalls and Sands Of Mali kept up the gallop to hold off Invincible Army. Cardsharp and Headway dead-heated for third place.
Sands Of Mali was given a quote of 50-1 with Paddy Power for the Qipco 2000 Guineas.
Hanagan said: "He's a bit inexperienced, but he pinged the gates and showed a great cruising speed. He took some pulling up.
"I think this year is just a bonus with him, he's only going to improve."
Fahey said: "That's brilliant, I've been second in it three times I think, even with Ribchester, so I've been desperate to tick it off my list. "I couldn't believe it when he got beat first time, but that's racing.
"I know he was 14-1 but he didn't know that, we've always really liked him.
"This is a big deal for us, I'm chuffed."
He went on: "He's in everything, like the Middle Park and what have you, it looks a big shout entering these horses when they've only won a maiden but you have to do it."
Trainer James Tate said of the runner-up: "I'm feeling mixed emotions, nobody likes finishing second. Having beaten Cardsharp and Headway, it represents a step up on his form.
"He's a big horse and can only keep on improving. We will look at the Mill Reef and the Middle Park, but we want to avoid soft ground."
William Haggas' said of Headway: "I'm satisfied, I wouldn't say I was happy. Judging on that run I think it's time to step him up in trip."
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