Godwinson Edges Thrilling Lincoln Handicap in Nail-Biting Photo Finish at Doncaster

A Photo Finish for the History Books

In a heart-stopping conclusion to the 2025 Lincoln Handicap at Doncaster, Godwinson (17-2) snatched victory by the slimmest of margins - a nose - in what commentators are calling one of the most exciting openings to the British flat racing season in recent memory. Ridden by star jockey Cieren Fallon and trained by the legendary William Haggas, the 4-year-old colt produced a perfectly timed late surge to overtake frontrunners Oliver Show (22-1) and Orandi (13-2) in the final strides.

Tactical Brilliance on Display

The race unfolded with textbook drama:

• A packed field of 22 runners created a challenging early pace
• Oliver Show and Orandi broke clear at the 2-furlong marker
• Godwinson conserved energy before unleashing his devastating turn of foot
• Three horses hit the line simultaneously, requiring photo finish review

Haggas Makes Lincoln History

This victory marks the fifth Lincoln Handicap win for trainer William Haggas, adding to his previous successes in:

• 1992
• 2007
• 2010
• 2018 (with Addeybb)

"We've always believed in this horse's potential," Haggas told Racing Post. "His work ethic is exceptional - this was simply his day to shine."

Jockey's Masterclass

Fallon's ride drew particular praise from analysts:

• Perfect judgment of pace
• Impeccable positioning throughout
• Clinical finish when it mattered most

"I could feel him finding that extra gear," Fallon said in post-race interviews. "When he dropped his head at the line, I knew we'd done enough."

Spring Mile Surprise

The undercard featured an equally dramatic Spring Mile Handicap, where 50-1 outsider Pearl Eye was awarded victory after a stewards' inquiry overturned the initial result. The controversial finish saw:

• Thunder Roar (25-1) first past the post
• After review, Pearl Eye declared winner
• Trainer Darryll Holland's first major win of the season

What This Means for the Season

Experts suggest this explosive start to the flat season could signal:

• Strong year for Haggas stable
• Emerging rivalry between Godwinson and Orandi
• Increased interest in the Lincoln-Newmarket double

All eyes now turn to Newmarket's Craven Meeting, where several Lincoln runners may reappear.