Gran Maestro got his head in front in the same race he won last year.

“This modest apprentice riders’ handicap was hit by non-runners, but still featured a pair of last-time-out scorers and the previous year’s winner. It proved tactical from the start. GRAN MAESTRO, with a first-time visor replacing blinkers, landed his first success since taking the race in 2013 off 1lb lower and won well. He got the run of it and his rider exuded confidence 2f out. He sports headgear for a reason and took time to find top gear once asked to win, but was comfortably on top at the finish. Although his profile suggests he’s one to take on next time, he will escape a penalty if turning out quickly and didn’t appear to have too hard a time. QUOTES: Kevin Stott, rider of Gran Maestro: I got a nice lead and he picked up well when I asked him in the last couple of furlongs.”

– The Racing Post