History was made at Newmarket on Saturday when Aaim To Prosper became the first horse to win the Cesarewitch twice.
Not many punters fancied his chances as Brian Meehan’s eight-year-old was sent off at 66-1 to not only to become the first double winner but to also defy top weight.
He was drawn in stall one and despite the race being over two and a quarter miles (3600m), Kieren Fallon was scrubbing along from some way out.
The 7-1 favourite Countrywide Flame looked a huge danger, but the Triumph Hurdle winner could never quite get on terms and went down by half a length.
“He was off the bridle all the way,” Fallon said.
“He’s tough as nails and he really wanted it.
“This bit of juice in the ground has helped.
“I thought we were playing for second but when he picked up, he found a new lease of life.”
Meehan said he was thrilled with the win.
“”Kieren has everyone’s respect,” he said. “He’s a wonderful rider and rode him here a couple of weeks ago.
“He knew what he was getting on and what the horse needed.
“I’m thrilled with the horse and he’s made a bit of history.
“He’d been running in Pattern and stakes races but you couldn’t be confident with top weight.
“He’s 20lb (9kg) higher than when he last won it, but he did seem in really good shape and looking well at home.
“Good horses can come back and do it again and I’m delighted.”
