CAROL BARTLEY WINS LONGINES WITH HAWKEYETHENOO
26-07-2016
One of the highlights of the ladies Flat calendar, the Longines Handicap at Ascot, saw 19 go to post (although only 18 loaded with Lisa O’Neill having to endure the frustration of Burn The Boats refusing to enter the stalls).
TV pundits had been quick to dismiss HAWKEYETHENOO whilst discussing runners pre-race, the 10 year old not having won a race since the 2012 Steward’s Cup, but they were soon to be proven wrong. The field did not split but raced mainly centre of the course to the far side. Former triple ladies champion Carol Bartley was happy to hold up her horse towards the rear and track the leaders, making steady progress from 2 furlongs out. Joanna Mason was going well on NORMANDY BARRIERE to lead a furlong out, but was denied victory in the final 100 yards with HAWKEYETHENOO running on for Carol and score gamely for boss Jim Goldie by 1 1/4 lengths. 1 1/2 lengths back in 3rd was in-form Emily Easterby on her father’s SAKHEE’S RETURN with Becky Smith a further 1 1/4 lengths 4th.
Many congratulations Carol Bartley Jim Goldie and all winning connections on such a special win, made all the more memorable with Carol’s daughter Kayleigh Williams leading up the winning horse!
Our grateful thanks go to Longines for their generous sponsorship and supply of such a beautiful watch for the winning lady rider and also to Ascot Racecourse for their support.