Critical Moment earned a crack at one of the big races at York next month when making virtually all and gamely holding Desert Myth in the bluesq.com 'For 5 Places In Stewards' Cup' Stakes at Glorious Goodwood.
The 7-2 shot sweated profusely in the preliminaries and had to use up plenty of early fuel to get the rail and the lead from Quarrel, but soon settled into a rhythm and found extra for Michael Hills to resist the runner-up by a head.
Both trainer Barry Hills and his son and assistant Charlie had plenty of complimentary things to say about the winner, who will now have his sights raised from this Listed race to the Group Three Strensall Stakes on the Knavesmire.
Hills snr said: "The grey horse (Quarrel) didn't do him any favours because he had to take him on, but we thought the track would suit our horse."
Charlie Hills added: "He had a nice draw and the plan was to make it. He sweated, but that's something he always does in the mornings.
"We weren't too sure about his trip early in the season, but we now know he's a miler. My heart was in my mouth as it got very close late on. We'll look at the Strensall Stakes, he has a really good cruising speed."
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