AFFLECK BOLT struck for the Patrick Janssens camp in the final of the British Bred St Leger at Central Park on Friday.

The £4,000 Category Two feature drew a decent entry and ultimately went to the youngest runner in the decider in the shape of the January 2016 son of Kinloch Brae and Ardrine Lunar who was always handy as the traps opened for the 642m contest.

Tackled early by Liz McNair’s King Kid, fastest heat winner Affleck Bolt drew away from the fifth bend after the field crowded up as Ben McBride’s Apache Kid and Carl Perry’s Geelo Monty launched a challenge down the far side.

Keeping up the gallop, Affleck Bolt was three and three-quarter lengths clear at the line, winning in 40.10sec from Apache Kid and Geelo Monty, to take the prize for Janssens, who owns the two-year-old with John Proctor.

Janssens, who was keen to thank and praise the sponsors, said: “We’ve always thought a lot of him, ever since he finished third in the Towcester Puppy Derby final – finishing well and being in front at the pick-up.

“So, it’s nice to win a good race with him,” he added. “He picked up an injury in March so was off for nine weeks, but comeback trials were good and we looked at this competition for him as being perfect for him.

“He won a trial stakes for it – and now heat and final. He clocked a cracking 39.57sec in the heats, which shows what a very decent stayer he is. It’s great for the kennel and I must credit my wife Cheryl who bred this litter. They’re all decent.

“Affleck Lady and Affleck Dino are in season at the moment, but Bolt is flying the flag and there’s plenty to look forward to with some nice competitions – and thanks to Pete and Marcus who work for us and to Ron Mills for all their continued hard work.”

Central Park general manager Kieran Lifley said: “Having got within a length and a half of the track record in the heats, Affleck Bolt was a hot favourite for the final and certainly didn’t disappoint his fans and connections.

“It certainly wasn’t plan sailing in the final after crowding on the back straight, but he came through well and was a deserved winner. His efforts have been by far the best six-bend performances this year at Central Park.

“It was also great to see the win for one of our newly-arrived trainers in Patrick Janssens. These sort of competitions are important for British breeding and in Affleck Bolt we have a terrific British-bred six-bend dog amongst us.”