DEE Ex Bee claimed his first race since his juvenile days when running out an impressive winner of the Group 3 Longines Sagaro Stakes at Ascot.

Mark Johnston’s colt finished second in last year’s Derby before disappointing in the Irish equivalent, but he ran several other good races in defeat, including when fourth in the St Leger.

That race at Doncaster proved staying trips could be his forte this season and William Buick was keen to keep the revs up on the son of Farhh.

Sat on the shoulder of Weekender and Frankie Dettori, Buick made his challenge early in the straight and gave those in behind a target.

Scottish Champion Hurdle winner Verdana Blue appeared to be going well when a little tight for room, but when the gap eventually appeared, she failed to pick up.

Dee Ex Bee fairly powered home though, beating Raymond Tusk by three and a quarter lengths to earn a quote of 14/1 with Betfair for the Gold Cup at Royal Ascot in June.

Bet with William Hill here