Victory at last
Improved facilities provides light at the end of the tunnel for one winner, while a bargain buy at Ascot proves his worth
Chiddingfold, Leconfield & Cowdray, Parham, West Sussex
A SPELL of heavy rain turned the ground soft at Parham on Saturday, creating very tiring conditions for the runners.
One horse who handled the ground was open maiden winner Light on the mountain( Will Hickman), who pulled well clear over the first circuit and never saw another rival.
It was an emotional win for his trainer Hannah Jones: “It’s been a long wait for this,” she admitted. “We’ve had lots of seconds but have been chasing a winner.
“We put in a circular sand gallop at home for this season and I think that has made the difference,” added Hannah. “Light on the mountain has improved immensely since we bought him last May — he just jumps and gallops and this soft ground is perfect for him.”
Another trainer enjoying a first winner of the season was Charlotte Marshall, who sent out Conkies Lad to win the men’s open under her son, Charlie.
The 12-year-old hadn’t been running his best this season, but tenaciously held off the challenge of Woodfleet, winner of the
Cheltenham intermediate final last season.
“He’s off the transfer list now,” quipped Charlotte (referring to Conkies Lad and not her son).
‘HE LIVES IN THE FIELD WITH THE COWS’
THE ladies’ open went to a surprise winner in Jackfield, who was ridden by dairy farmer Beth Mellish. The eight-year-old was low-rated under Rules and cost just £800 from Ascot sales, but has clearly taken to pointing.
“He lives in the field with the cows,” said Beth. “I don’t know what was different today, maybe he’s just fitter, but he’s a total legend and jumps like a stag.”
Leading area rider Shane Roche scored his third double of the season, riding both Indian Chance and Generous Ransom to victory for his boss David Phelan.
By winning the intermediate, Indian Chance was winning his
third race of the season and looks the type who should be able to progress to hunter chase level. Shane had to use all his strength to get Generous Ransom’s head in front on the line in the conditions’ race, turning the form around with Glint Of Steel.
The concluding restricted provided the most dramatic finish of the day. With just two runners left going up the straight, Taking The Mickey had pulled 15 lengths clear of the tiring Cnoc Sion and only had to jump the final fence to win.
Unfortunately, the five-yearold had other ideas, attempting to refuse and ultimately getting stuck halfway over the fence. Cnoc Sion under Phil York then had to negotiate the wedged horse to finish alone and take the spoils.