The Group 2 Hungerford Stakes at Newbury has long been a race where progressive horses advertise themselves, and on Saturday it was the exciting More Thunder who upped his game again to win. The improving four-year-old delivered the most convincing display of his career to date, sweeping past his rivals with a telling turn of foot to claim the Group 2 prize in style.

Settled early under a confident ride by Tom Marquand, More Thunder travelled with a composure that belied the company he was keeping. The pace was solid from the outset, with a handful of rivals intent on making it a true test over seven furlongs. While others were being nudged along turning for home, More Thunder was still on the bridle, waiting for the gaps to appear.

When his rider angled him into the clear approaching the furlong marker, the response was instant. Lengthening stride, he powered away, the race settled in a matter of strides. The winning margin was comfortable, but it was the manner of victory that marked him out as a horse destined for more than just Group 2 success.

The Hungerford has often revealed future stars. Excelebration used it as a springboard to Group 1 glory, as did Lethal Force and Paco Boy. More Thunder’s name now joins that roll of honour and on this evidence he may well follow a similar path into top-level company.

For the Newbury faithful it was a performance to relish. More Thunder left the track with a valuable prize, but also with the aura of one who has bigger days ahead.