Oaks third The Lark flops at Saint-Cloud
The Lark could finish only fifth in the Abu Dhabi Prix de Malleret at Saint-Cloud this afternoon.
Last Updated: 23/06/13 8:24pm
A fine third in the Investec Oaks at Epsom at the end of May, Michael Bell's filly was due to run in the Ribblesdale Stakes at Royal Ascot on Thursday, but was withdrawn by connections on account of the drying conditions.
Instead sent to France for this Group Two assignment, the three-year-old was smartly away from the stalls but was soon taken back by Jamie Spencer.
The 5-2 joint-favourite travelled powerfully towards the rear of the field rounding the home turn, but did not pick up immediately. When she did get going, it was all too late.
Main market rival Ferevia also made late headway, but was well held in fourth in the hands of Olivier Peslier.
The Mikel Delzangles-trained Pacific Rim (11-2) was never too far off the speed under Umberto Rispoli and completed the hat-trick in fine style following wins in lesser company at Maisons-Laffitte and Longchamp.
Chalnetta and Orion Love were second and third respectively.