Close third for First Mission in G3 Razorback Handicap

First Mission narrowly lost out to Alexander Helios and Banishing as the trio served up a pulsating finish to the G3 Razorback Handicap at Oaklawn Park, USA, on Sunday, 23 February. 

Having his first start since early August, First Mission was smartly into his stride and soon settled in third down the inside, some two lengths behind the leading duo of Banishing and Alexander Helios. 

Florent Geroux switched out First Mission turning for home and last season’s G2 Alysheba Stakes winner stayed on to press the front two at the top of the straight. 

Banishing and Alexander Helios duelled for the lead all the way down the lane, with First Mission making his own sustained challenge throughout the final furlong. 

Less than half a length separated the three at the line as Alexander Helios edged out Banishing by a head, with a neck back to the Brad Cox-trained Godolphin runner.