ROMEO RUNS UP PRODUCE

Ian Fortune

Romeo Hanzo faced a tough test in the final of the British Bred Produce Stakes at Swindon but ran a fine race to finish runner-up to the track record holder Queen Joni, who was once-again foot perfect.

The latter was sent to traps the odds-on favourite at 10-11 and it was soon evident she was going to take some stopping. Romeo Hanzo didn’t get away quite as fast but was disputing second into the turn where he took a bump. He did stay on well to get past King Capaldi on the run in to take second but Queen Joni was too good, crossing the line six lengths clear in a rapid 27.80. It was a gallant effort from Romeo Hanzo but the winner does look potentially very special.