Twenty-one-year-old novice jockey Jack Sutton clinched his maiden win on the racetrack today, guiding his family's horse Balum to victory in Punchestown's Sherry Fitzgerald Brady O'Flaherty Supporting Longford GAA Handicap Hurdle.
Balum, priced at 7/1, made a remarkable comeback after a 478-day hiatus, having secured a third-place finish over the same course and distance just 23 days ago. In today's event, the horse took charge from the start and crossed the finish line comfortably ahead of the second-place Beau's Candle by a significant nine lengths.
Trainer Dermot McLoughlin shared his thoughts on the young jockey's achievement, highlighting Jack's background from the outskirts of Ashbourne. Jack, who had previously triumphed in a point-to-point race, balances his time working in his family's pub, riding out, and managing a farm—a testament to his industrious nature. McLoughlin praised Jack's parents, Eileen and Raymond, who own Balum, expressing delight at the victory and commending Jack's dedication and character.
Reflecting on Balum's performance, McLoughlin acknowledged the horse's progress and hinted at future plans, stating,
"We'll await the handicapper's decision now. Balum's recent run was promising, and the experience has certainly benefited her. It's a positive start for the young jockey, and we will build on this success moving forward".