TRAINER Marco Botti was in the winner's circle for the second time in 24 hours as Splinter Cell struck at Wolverhampton on December 17.
Just a day after Gracious Melange had scored for Botti's yard, Splinter Cell was successful in an extended nine-furlong handicap. The Johannesburg colt has enjoyed a fruitful 2009 and this was his third victory of the campaign and the fourth of his career overall.
Jockey Andrea Atzeni gave Botti's charge a a fine hold-up ride with the bay anchored towards the rear of the field for much of the contest.
But the 12/1 charge belied his prize when Atzeni delivered him with a decisive challenge from over 2f out.
Splinter Cell took over at the head of affairs from Mr Willis by the furlong marker and was driven out to win by a length and a half from the same rival.
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