PJ McDonald proved right as he and Laurens show perfect timing at Doncaster

Laurens (centre left) - ridden by P.J. McDonald - wins the William Hill May Hill Stakes at Doncaster. Picture: Mike Egerton/PA

A last-gasp victory in this prestigious contest saw the two-year-old gallop into the reckoning for next season’s 1,000 Guineas.

Yet, while Leyburn trainer Karl Burke confirmed that the horse will have a Guineas entry, he believes she might require further than a mile in time. Mark Johnston’s Nyaleti showed plenty of speed up front, and kicked clear, but McDonald knew Laurens had stamina on her side and timed his run to perfection.

“That was brilliant,” he said. “We’ve had so much faith in her from the start. Whatever she does this year, I can’t wait to ride her next year.

Laurens and jockey PJ McDonald win the William Hill May Hill Stakes at Doncaster. Picture: Mike Egerton/PA

“I’ve never ridden a Group One winner before, but I’d be shocked if she can’t make up into one.”

Burke was completing a double after landing the preceding nursery with the Clifford Lee-ridden Ellthea. The in-form trainer appears to have young horses in abundance for next year, but was relieved that Laurens justified her lofty £220,000 price tag for owner John Dance who was recording his biggest win to date.

“She’s a beautiful-natured filly with the looks, the class and the action,” eulogised Burke after roaring his horse home from the paddock.