A STEP up to two and a half miles saw Kings Bayonet in a far better light as he collected the Colts & Fillies Club Maiden Hurdle at Ascot in handsome style yesterday.
Alan King's chestnut had been placed on his last two starts in ordinary company over two miles and was ridden patiently by Robert Thornton to ensure he handled the extra distance.
It hardly looked in doubt swinging into the home straight and Kings Bayonet (4-1) soon came three and a quarter lengths clear of Kruzhlinin.
"He stayed pretty well on the Flat and I'd say he stayed that pretty well," said King's assistant, Noel Williams.
"You'd think that would give us options of stepping up in trip again if needed. We haven't discussed plans but he seems to handle good ground."
MORE SPORTS REPORTS, REACTION & PICTURES IN THURSDAY'S GAZETTE & HERALD
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