Migration is so sen-Say-tional

★ FRANCE defeated England as Migration dived for the line in the Pertemps Network Lincoln at Doncaster.

★ The 18-1 shot’s strong late run under Benoit De La Sayette took him past one of the favourites Awaal (9-2).

★ Claiming 3lb, the rider, hailed as the next Frankie Dettori, saved his challenge for the final furlong.

★ The gaps opened and the jockey, who learned his trade pony racing in France, went on by the runner-up for a length and a quarter success.

★ Migration’s trainer David Menusier also hails from the continent and was thrilled by De La Sayette’s tactical masterclass.

★ His win on Haqeeqy in the race two years ago launched his career and Menusier said: “I told Benoit to wait, wait, wait and when you think it’s time to go wait a bit more and he’ll deliver for you. That’s exactly what he did.”

★ Baradar (9-1) was third and 25-1 outsider Majestic finished fourth in the contest, worth £77,310 to the winner.

★ De La Sayette (left) only had the call-up to ride Migration at the last minute and he added: “He’s an unbelievable horse, especially to carry that weight on that ground.”

★ Earlier on the card, a horse named after Scottish rugby union legend Doddie Weir kickstarted the Flat season.

★ Doddie’s Impact (10-1) collared the favourite Valedro by a neck in the Pertemps Network EBF Brocklesby Stakes.

★ The thoroughbred, partnered by top apprentice Billy Loughlane on Town Moor, is raising funds to fight Motor Neurone Disease. Trainer Robyn Brisland said: “We can starting dusting off our top hats.”