In Perth, amateur jockey Ella Herbison won her first race after an incredible comeback in the saddle on Monty Searle.
For the added pleasure of Herbison and trainer Nigel Hawke, Willie Mullins entered Dr. Eggman, a clear favourite.
Herbison nearly fell out of the saddle as Paul Townend bore down on Dr. Eggman, leaving Monty Searle (11-1) looking like a sitting duck. Dexterity and Sean Bowen also appeared dangerous as they neared two out.
They appeared to have lost the race, but Herbison, who was claiming 7lb, inspired Monty Searle and won by a length and a quarter.
“To be honest I thought I was a gonner but he helped me out and lifted his head up and threw me back into the plate so a lot of thanks to the horse,” Herbison told Racing TV. “I knew he stayed well. He wouldn’t be the quickest in the world but when I was in front I was thinking ‘why haven’t they got to me yet’ and when they did get to me we got racing and he got in a bit tight (to the second last). He stayed on really well to the line and he’s really game. That’s only his second start over hurdles as well. He’d won a point-to-point but he’s learning all the time and will make a nice chaser in time. He’s had a few problems which is why he hasn’t run much but he’s really game.”
She went on: “That’s my 42nd ride so I’ve given it a few goes and had quite a few seconds so it’s great to get my first winner under rules, especially for Robert (Pudd, owner) and Nigel who have been very good to me. I’ve had 13 winners pointing, I had one on Sunday too. I’m based with Nigel in the morning and do the pointers in the afternoon. It’s a long way to come but it was worth it.”