THIN-SKINNED British bookmakers were running for cover after Double Trigger crushed his rivals in the time-honoured Doncaster Cup at the St Leger meeting, and the powerful chestnut with the big white face is now as low as 4-1 favourite for his principal target, the Melbourne Cup on November 7.
The colt was being hailed as arguably the best stayer seen on racecourses in Britain since the days of Ardross in the early 1980s after he galloped his rivals into the ground with an outstanding performance.
Over three furlongs out, Jason Weaver, his partner, was niggling at the Mark Johnston-trained stayer as Further Flight loomed large on the outside of the pack, with Michael Hills sitting motionless and with plenty in hand.
But this was the challenge for which Double Trigger appeared to be waiting. As soon as he was asked, he lengthened his stride and proceeded to give his rivals a galloping lesson.
He raced clear to score by three lengths from Further Flight, with Old Rouvel a length and a half away third.
With the Doncaster Cup in the bag - plus the Ascot Gold Cup and the Goodwood Cup - connections of Double Trigger will now be campaigning abroad, with the Prix du Cadran at Longchamp on September 30 being used as a stepping stone to the Melbourne Cup.
'He is an exceptional horse,' Johnston said after welcoming the colt back to the winner's enclosure.
