Orion's Belt can compete with the stars at Sandown

ORION’S Belt makes a swift leap to Listed company as she tackles the European Bloodstock News EBF Star Stakes at Sandown.

- By ANITA CHAMBERS

Richard Hannon’s charge was a popular pick on her Salisbury debut, sent off the 5-6 favourite in a novice contest against the colts, but she ultimately fell half a length short in finishing fourth over six furlongs.

Her evident inexperience told that day and she just lost out on a place on the line.

But she made no mistake at Newmarket earlier this month when upped to seven furlongs and making all for a comprehensive three-and-three-quarter-length verdict.

Orion’s Belt clearly thrived for the longer trip and while the value of that form is unclear, the manner of her victory impressed and she can take another step forward.

Publish came within half a length of a Sandown victory on debut and can right that record in the Martin Densham & Peter Deal Memorial British EBF Maiden Stakes.