Quinault made a triumphant return to form by leading from start to finish in the Liverpool Airport Faster, Easier, Friendlier Queensferry Stakes at Chester.
Last season, Stuart Williams’ sprinter impressed by winning seven of his eight races. Although this season has been tougher with a higher handicap mark, Quinault’s front-running style was well-suited to Chester, especially from stall two.
Jockey Marco Ghiani got Quinault out of the stalls quickly, and the horse was never challenged. Despite the favourite, Al Shabab Storm, chasing hard for a Chester hat-trick, he could not catch the 9-2 winner, who secured victory by a length.
Ghiani praised the horse's performance, saying, “He delivered today after a disappointing period, breaking well, taking the lead, and relaxing nicely before speeding up.”
Trainer Stuart Williams, marking his 999th win, commented on the journey, noting setbacks due to illness but celebrating the return to form with a Listed victory, calling the horse enthusiastic and quality.
Harriet Bethell's Yanifer, starting from a wide draw, won the Barbara & Geoff Everall Memorial Handicap, with jockey Oisin McSweeney managing a perfect mid-division position before a strong finish.
Saffie Osborne, who previously won the Chester Cup, scored another victory with Neardown (7-1), trained by her father. She remarked on the horse's impressive ability, despite initial concerns about handling the track.