Brighton racecourse kicked off its flat racing season with the now traditional spring evening meeting.
The course was drenched in glorious late afternoon sunshine and the action got under way with the 4.40pm – the short-priced Taexali getting home by half a length.
Ex Channel 4 Racing presenter Derek Thompson was master of ceremonies with the card sponsored by Piglets Pies.
A fairly sparse crowd enjoyed some exciting action as Roy Rocket just beat outsider Tamujim in the second race.
The Brendan Powell trained Gannicus took the third and favourite Baileys En Premier was ridden to victory by John Egan in the mile.
The fifth and richest race of the day the Piglets Support UK Farmers Handicap, worth £4,690 to the winner, was taken by Ganymede who wore down the long-time leader Dr Red Eye in the final half furlong.
The race with the most runners (11) the 7.20, was won by the favourite Pick A Little.
The new course general manager Davina Wells was interviewed by “Thommo” and spoke of an exciting season ahead.
The final race over the minimum distance of five furlongs was well won by the humorously named Welease Bwian after drama at the start when the rearing Cadeaux Pearl was withdrawn.
Gamymede beats long time leader Dr Red Eye in the 6:45 Brighton
