Ascot report: Indian Ink answered trainer Richard Hannon's late decision to run with a scintillating victory in the Watership Down Stud Sales Race at Ascot yesterday.
Heavy rain throughout the day prompted Hannon, who ran three in the £277,300 race, to consider withdrawing the Raymond Tooth-owned filly, but when unable to contact him made the decision which netted connections the £106,982 first prize.
Always travelling beautifully for Hughes, the 9 to 4 chance was in control well over a furlong out and powered to a three-length success over Siamese Cat when asked to go and win her race.
Diamond Diva kept on for third, with Whazzis fourth.
Hughes had gone 48 rides without a winner and Hannon said: "I could see Hughesy was happy all the way, but I admit I had my doubts about running her when the ground went soft.
"I had one eye on the Cheveley Park at Newmarket next week and she could still run in that if she comes out of this okay."
Kerrin McEvoy continues to impress as a shrewd tactician and the Australian notched a near 48 to 1 double in the first two races on Al Qasi (9 to 4 favourite) and Acts Of Grace (14 to 1).
In the Princess Royal Stakes, McEvoy guided Acts Of Grace to a length and a quarter and three lengths triumph over Gower Song and Bunood.
Al Qasi, the 9 to 4 favourite, quickened impressively on the ground to beat Burning Incense and Charles Darwin by two lengths and a length and three-quarters.
