PJ McDonald steers Laurens to William Hill May Hill Stakes win at Doncaster

Laurens claimed a last-gasp victory in the William Hill May Hill Stakes at Doncaster.

By The Newsroom

Published 14th Sep 2017, 15:52 BST

Updated 27th Sep 2017, 11:32 BST

Laurens storms ahead to win the big race of the day at Doncaster (Photo: PA)

Karl Burke's filly was a narrow winner on her racecourse debut at this venue in July before filling the runner-up spot in the Group Three Prix du Calvados at Deauville last month.

Stepping up to Group Two level on Town Moor, she was the 11-4 market leader in the hands of PJ McDonald, but it was not easy viewing for favourite-backers.

PJ McDonald earns place at top table on merit

Laurens appeared to be caught a little flat-footed when Nyaleti upped the ante inside the final three furlongs and at that stage she looked booked for minor honours at best.

However, Burke's charge eventually found top gear and got up to beat course and distance winner Dark Rose Angel by a head, with Nyaleti the same distance away in third.

Karl Burke Doncaster