Beacon shines for Godolphin at Canterbury

Beacon makes all the running to win at Canterbury for Godolphin and jockey Hugh Bowman.

Godolphin gelding Beacon took a step towards Saturday-grade racing with an impressive win at Canterbury.

The Lonhro three-year-old took advantage of a plumb barrier draw under Hugh Bowman and made a decisive move in the straight to win the Pluck@Vinery Handicap (1100m) by 1-1/2 lengths.

“He’s got a bit of style about him. He’s really lowered and applied himself beautifully in the straight there,” said Godolphin head trainer James Cummings.

“He was able to ping from the barriers and put himself right there. It was very convincing in the finish.”

The $1.55 favourite was followed home by Workdrinks ($11) while Charlie Chap ($13) was 1-1/4 lengths back in third.

Cummings thought Beacon was capable of taking on stronger company at some point over spring after he recorded his second win from three starts.

“We certainly haven’t got to the bottom of him yet. He’s not screwed right down.

“There might be an opportunity there for him to race against the older horses. I think he’s an improver,” Cummings said.

Bowman was also upbeat after controlling the race from barrier one.

“He led comfortably, I loved the way he settled in front. It suggests to me seven furlongs might not be a problem for him later.

“He’s showing that he’s sharp at the moment. He gave a good kick on the bend and was too strong.

“I’m sure he’s better things in store.”