Baker delivers on Quest For More

Quest For More proves too strong for Pallasator in the Lonsdale Cup. Picture: Racingfotos.com

George Baker excelled as Quest For More made all in the Weatherbys Hamilton Lonsdale Cup at York today.

Baker dictated affairs from the off on Roger Charlton’s six-year-old in the QIPCO British Champions Series contest, and his mount stuck on in determined style when challenged and pulled away again to win by three and a half lengths from the admirable Pallasator.

Wicklow Brave was third after looking threatening, with former Gold Cup winner Trip To Paris fourth.
Baker said: “Pulling up was harder than the race itself. I think a change of tactics helped, I was a bit too negative on him at Goodwood.

“We had a chat and thought we’d roll along and keep it simple. I thought if he turned up on the day he had a massive chance. He’s a very willing partner and really relaxed in front.”

Charlton said: “It’s so nice having those old stayers. He improved a lot last year and this year we were hovering a little bit and weren’t quite up to our form.

“Nothing went right for him. We wanted to run him in the Ascot Gold Cup and it was too soft. It started raining today and I thought our chances were diminishing

“I thought George gave him a superb ride and it looked as though he could go round again.
“I thought it would suit him in front. Every time he runs over a mile and six his jockeys say his best furlong was the one past the line.

“He takes a bit of time to get going. It was like that in the Melbourne Cup. I think he’s a genuine stayer.”

Appearing to rule out a tilt at this year’s Melbourne showpiece, Charlton added: “I like to see the horses and be with them a lot and that’s very difficult when they’re on the other side of the world.

“He’s a fragile horse and needs looking after and I think I’d rather look after him here in England.
“The ground dictates where he goes. Maybe the stayers’ race in Dubai might be nice for him.”

Sir Mark Prescott was again delighted with Pallasator, who has hardly run a bad race this season.
He said: “It was a tremendous run, but the winner is back to his best. The first two kept going all the way, so I’m very happy.

“I had intended to go straight to Doncaster (Doncaster Cup), but this looked winnable.”
Trip To Paris was having the second start of his delayed comeback following his run in the Japan Cup back in November.

Trainer Ed Dunlop said: “I’d say it was a satisfactory run, without being startling.

“He’s getting back to where he was. He needs racing and I only wish there were more races like this.
“As for plans, we’ll get him back home and think about it.”