The Red Kite circling over the Thames at Windsor yesterday evening nearly broke into full cry as his namesake Milvus very nearly notched his first win, seeing out the mile really well to just fail by two necks at the winning post. From a wide draw, George Bass showed really positive intent to go forward and set a strong pace, wresting the outside lead from rivals after the first quarter mile. Keeping up a strong gallop throughout, Milvus tacked across to the rail and led the field into the home straight. From there, with the assistance of the running rail, Milvus was in contention all the way along the straight, and rallied well inside the final furlong to respond to his two mid track challengers and only end up short of half a length by the line. This augurs weally well for his chances of a deserved maiden win, perhaps suggesting that he might step up to a mile and a quarter next time, when a much kinder draw might allow him to prevail.