After a frustrating run of five seconds, the yard of trainers’ championship leader Dan Skelton enjoyed a change of luck when She’s A Saint (25-1) defied an absence of almost a year to land the Hallgarten And Novum Wines Handicap Hurdle, the concluding contest on Ladies Day.
Dan Skelton said: “I had a conversation with the two owners (who race as Estate Research Pc Limited) about an hour ago, and while I wasn’t saying we definitely shouldn’t run on the ground I wasn’t convinced it was going to suit her. To be fair to these two they’ve been super patient. Deciding to run today is down to them and I take my hat off to them.
“I’m so proud of her. It just shows what can happen when you give them a bit of time when it’s needed. And she’s got a great ride off Tristan as they’ve gone very hard in front. There’s been a bit of knocking on the woodwork this week, but that’s great.”
The winning rider Tristan Durrell said: “Absolutely brilliant. I was a bit worried she might be rusty after having a year off the track, but she’s got so much ability and her form’s shown that. It’s nice for her to bounce back today and show everyone how good she is.
“Credit to the owners, because we were unsure about the ground for her after she had that injury, but the owners wanted to run and thank God they did. She’s come back safe and she’s won the race, so credit to them and thanks to them for putting me up.
“I waited so long with her round the bend to try to get her to finish; from the back of the last I knew I was just picking up and getting them, but it’s such a long way from the back of the last. I knew I was sort of picking them up.
“It’s an amazing team. Harry and Dan both gave me a hug coming back in and it means everything. I’ve been there nearly eight years now, since I left school, so moments like this mean a lot.”
Runner-up Slugger arrived on the scene cruising but was just run out of it by the winner, who came fast and late.
His trainer Harry Derham said: “I’m gutted to be beaten like that, but I’m very, very proud of him. He’s been absolutely amazing this season, starting off on 112 and running a race like that here (off 129) and getting beaten by the champion trainer elect.”
