Secret Hideaway advertises Ascot claims with shock success

Adrian Keatley could have a smart prospect on his hands after Secret Hideaway put herself in the Royal Ascot picture when striking late in the Clipper EBF Marygate Fillies’ Stakes at York.

A runner-up at Ripon on debut, she was sent off a 33-1 shot in the hands of PJ McDonald, who bided his time in the early stages as Karl Burke’s impressive Wolverhampton scorer, the fancied Love Olivia, led the field down the Knavesmire.

Richard Hannon’s 15-8 favourite Harry’s Girl took over in the final furlong, but McDonald was soon conjuring up a finishing flourish from his mount who stormed home by half a length.

The winner was introduced into the Queen Mary Stakes market at 14-1 by both Betfair and Paddy Power, with Keatley confirming the Royal meeting would come under consideration.

He said: “She’s a decent filly and I’ve always thought plenty of her.

“Her heart is the biggest part of her, as you saw there. I ran her to educate her over the sharp five but I think she’ll stay six no bother and maybe even seven in time.

“She will improve a load as the year goes on, I’ll speak to the owners and Ascot will probably be the obvious place to go.

“We’ll speak and see which race we like the look of.

“She’s brilliant, very laid back and a pleasure to have anything to do with.”