Vintner can Master his rivals for November Handicap win

MASTER Vintner can make it back-to-back victories in the Virgin Bet November Handicap for trainer Ralph Beckett.

- By ANITA CHAMBERS

Duran, left, was just touched off by Smart Vision at Doncaster late last month but can go one better today

(ALAN CROWNHURST/GETTY IMAGES)

The Kimpton handler won it last year with Lord Melbourne, who defends his Doncaster title, but preference is for his lightly-raced stablemate who has won each of his two starts this term.

Having finished third to St Leger winner Scandinavia on his racecourse debut in May, it was little surprise when he was well supported on his first start for Beckett in September, when he landed a heavy ground 10-furlong novice with little fuss.

He stepped up to a mile and a half on the all-weather for another authoritative success, earning him a starting mark of 92 which could still underestimate his ability.

Duran looks to have plenty in his favour as he tackles six furlongs in the Virgin Bet Daily Price Boosts Handicap.

He was putting in all his best work at the finish on Town Moor last time out but fell just a neck short over the minimum trip, which makes this longer test look ideal on the ground.