Fantasy World shocks rivals in Listed Noel Murless Stakes

Fantasy World caused a 20-1 surprise as he landed the BetMGM Noel Murless Stakes at Ascot for Andrew Balding. Rated just 89 ahead of his Listed assignment, Fantasy World was up against two horses who carried Classic hopes earlier in the year in Nightwalker and Arabian Force, and it was that pair who eventually fought out the finish with him.

Rob Hornby just had enough left up his sleeve on Fantasy World to prevail by a neck, with a further three-quarters of a length back to Arabian Force in third.

Sam Hoskins, racing manager for owners Kennet Valley Syndicates, said: “It was inspired placement from the trainer to be honest, it wasn’t my choice!

“Andrew made a case for it because he’s in the sales later this month and he won the race last year with a horse rated in the 90s (Subsequent) and he didn’t think there’d be a huge gulf between them as he likes soft ground and stays well.

“If we came third or fourth his rating would go up and help his value at the sales – but we didn’t think we’d win! “The rain came just in time and Rob has given him a great ride. We’d have been delighted with third or fourth but to win, beating all the big owners, is very satisfying so it’s a great day.