Karen's Caper (r) pounces late to beat Cape Columbine

The winner, ridden by Jimmy Fortune, put in a brave run late on to claim a notable success and could do well over a longer distance.

Cape Columbine was well-placed throughout but just failed to find speed in the closing stages.

The pair are both entered in the 1000 Guineas in May.

Subyan Dreams took the field along for the first few furlongs, before Slip Dance and then Cape Columbine, ridden by Richard Quinn, made breaks to take the Group Three prize.

But the winner, who tracked the leaders early on, swept through to lead 100 yards from the line and hold on by three-quarters of a length.

Favourita with Michael Hills on board was a further half a length away in third.

Norse Dancer marked his return to action with a win in the Earl of Sefton Stakes.

In his first run of the year, John Egan's mount battled hard to come through late and pip Hurricane Alan.

Hurricane Alan had been pushed all the way by Valixir, who just couldn't find the speed to take the lead.

But Norse Dancer, who went off as the 100-30 favourite put in a strong charge to inch closer and pounce for the win.

Earlier, Kamakiri was forced to work hard before winning the European Free Handicap race.

Ryan Moore's mount, a 4-1 chance, held off the challenge of the 7-2 favourite Obe Gold, ridden by Chris Catlin.

Obe Gold led for most of the race before being pushed by Kamakiri entering the final couple of furlongs.

But Obe Gold still hung on and fought bravely before falling short of his rival at the line.

Nell Gwyn Stakes
1. Karen's Caper (J Fortune) 15-2
2. Cape Columbine (T Quinn) 15-8f
3. Favourita (M Hills) 10-1
14 ran. Dist: �, �

Earl of Sefton Stakes
1. Norse Dancer (J F Egan) 10-3f
2. Hurricane Alan (P Dobbs) 13-2
3. Valixir (E Legrix) 6-1
10 ran. Dist: nk, 1�