Pontefract repeat could be next on Point Lynas’ agenda

Ed Bethell is considering several big-race options with Point Lynas following his gallant front-running performance in Saturday’s Summer Mile at Ascot.

The six-year-old was a 22-1 shot for what looked a strong renewal of the Berkshire circuit’s Group Two highlight, but very nearly pulled off a surprise victory under an enterprising ride by Jamie Spencer.

Point Lynas was eventually run down by Never So Brave, but stuck to his task to pick up the silver medal in second, beaten just three-quarters of a length.

Bethell said: “I was really, really happy. It was an inspired Jamie Spencer ride and the horse ran his heart out, showing he’s still full of life as he’s getting older.

“He split two Royal Ascot winners and two proper racehorses (Never So Brave and Haatem). I appreciate we slipped the field, but you don’t do what he does and only be beaten three-quarters of a length if you’re not in good form, so it was a brilliant run.”

Considering future plans, the trainer added: “We’ll have a look at the Listed race he won at Pontefract last year (Pomfret Stakes) in a couple of weeks’ time I would imagine and then we’ll probably look towards the Celebration Mile at Goodwood or maybe the Strensall Stakes at York.”