Ink lays down Guineas marker

Indian Ink put herself in the frame for the Stan James 1000 Guineas after putting up a hugely impressive display to land the Watership Down Stud Sales Race at Ascot.

Richard Hughes could hardly have had a smoother conveyance as he got off the cold list and a losing run stretching 48 rides in Britain.

Richard Hannon had considered withdrawing the filly on account of the testing conditions but is thanking his lucky stars he didn't as the uneasy favourite could be named the winner fully two furlongs out.

Hughes was oozing confidence on the 9-4 chance and, when he pushed the button, the daughter of Indian Ridge powered clear of Siamese Cat, Diamond Diva and Whazzis.

Hannon, who saddled three runners in the contest, said: 'I had the Cheveley Park in the back of my mind and I thought about taking her out but, when I couldn't contact her owner, Raymond Tooth, I decided to let her take her chance.

'Now we must think about Newmarket, which is only a week away, but if she comes out of it all right I'm quite keen to go for the Cheveley.'