Gertrude takes Cheshire Oaks Gertrude Bell took the step up to Listed company in her stride with an authoritative display in the Weatherbys Bank Cheshire Oaks at Chester. Sent off at 5-2 having won a maiden at Newbury last month, the daughter of Sinndar was handily placed throughout and threw down a challenge to long-time leader Acquainted at the top of the straight. The latter put up a determined effort but Gertrude Bell and William Buick wore her down to score by three-quarters of a length. Buick said: "She is so straight forward and game. I always thought this place would suit her and she's progressing well. "The only thing I was a bit worried about was my high draw. I had to go handy which meant I might not get any cover, but she relaxed fine and everything went well." Gosden added: "If you win a Chester trial you have to go to Epsom. "There was no pace, but she did it well. She handled the track and is a nice progressive filly." Gosden's wife, Rachel Hood, the successful owner-breeder said: "She's a lovely filly and William Buick rode a fantastic race on her. "She's got a lovely attitude and we couldn't be more thrilled with her. "The competition was pretty hot, we thought. Luckily Gertrude Bell has lived up to her name. Gertrude Bell was a most amazing lady from last century." Sky Bet cut the winner to 16-1 from 25s for the Investec Oaks at Epsom next month. Matt Doyle of Sky Bet said: "She is going the right way graduating from maiden company to win at Listed level and the experience of the Roodeye will be invaluable for Epsom with John Gosden nominating the Oaks as her next target."
