What a finish! What a performance! Phoenix Of Dreams produced a sensational late surge to snatch victory in the very final stride at Kempton on Friday evening, giving Coral Racing Club members another unforgettable moment to celebrate!

Our five-year-old gelding, trained by John & Sean Quinn, lined up in the 20:15 Handicap, a Class 5 contest over seven furlongs on Kempton's Polytrack surface. Sent off at 7/1 under Rowan Scott, Phoenix Of Dreams faced ten rivals in what developed into a thrilling battle all the way to the winning post. Having finished an excellent second at Southwell on his previous outing, there was every reason to believe that he could be competitive once again. However, few could have predicted quite how dramatic the closing stages would become!

Breaking from stall six, Phoenix Of Dreams settled into a position towards the front of midfield, travelling comfortably as the field found its rhythm. Rowan Scott was content to bide his time, keeping our boy within striking distance whilst the early leaders set the pace.

As the field approached the final two furlongs, the race began to unfold. The Clive Cox-trained Bold Shout, sent off the 5/2 favourite, moved narrowly into the lead with Angels' Share, representing William Knight, right alongside. The pair became locked in a fierce battle at the head of affairs, neither willing to give an inch.

Meanwhile, Phoenix Of Dreams was beginning to make his presence felt.

WATCH: Rowan Scott discuss Phoenix Of Dreams' thrilling victory!

Urged forwards by Rowan, our champ responded with tremendous enthusiasm, picking up strongly inside the final furlong as he began to reel in the battling leaders. With every stride he was gaining ground and suddenly what had looked like a two-horse battle became a three-way fight for victory.

Then came the moment that made it all worthwhile!

Showing every ounce of his trademark guts, heart and battling spirit, Phoenix Of Dreams produced one final surge to get his head in front on the very last stride, snatching victory by a neck from Bold Shout, with Angels' Share just a head further behind in third.

It was a finish that had everything. Courage, excitement, a perfectly timed ride and a horse who simply refused to be denied.

The victory marked Phoenix Of Dreams' third career success and his second of 2026, adding to his Newcastle triumph in March. Having also won at Redcar in October 2024, he continues to demonstrate his versatility and his willingness to give everything when it matters most.

There was something particularly satisfying about Friday's success. Following his encouraging runner-up effort at Southwell, Phoenix Of Dreams arrived at Kempton in good form and showed exactly what he is capable of when his race falls into place. His finishing effort was a wonderful reminder of the attitude and competitive spirit that have made him such a popular member of the Club's string.

Huge congratulations must go to Rowan for a beautifully judged ride and to John & Sean Quinn and everyone at their yard for the care, patience and hard work that goes into preparing him for days like these.

For Coral Racing Club members, these are the moments we live for. Watching our horses battle, seeing those famous colours carried to victory and sharing the sheer excitement of another winner.

Three career victories. Two wins in 2026. One very special horse. Take a bow, Phoenix Of Dreams. You've made us incredibly proud!