KELSO REVIEW - Thursday 29th December

by Bill Harvey

Russell’s Brace in Scots’ five-timer at Kelso’s Final Fling

 

 

Lucinda Russell saddled two winners on a great afternoon for Scots trainers in front of a 2700 crowd at Kelso’s Final Fling fixture on Thursday 29 December.

 

Brindisi Breeze (13-8), ridden by Campbell Gillies, gave St Andrews owner Sandy Seymour his first success in the toteplacepot ‘National Hunt’ Maiden Hurdle and looks a smart prospect for Scotland’s leading jump trainer.

 

Peter Buchanan excelled on the Alexander Trotter-owned Bold Sir Brian (13-8) in the Ashleybank Investments Reg & Betty Tweedie Novices’ Chase, beating Lie Forrit by two lengths to seal the Milnathort yard’s brace.

 

“I’m really pleased. Brindisi Breeze stays very well and will be a long-distance chaser and Bold Sir Brian is a lovely horse for the future. Pete gave him a great ride as Lie Forrit is more of a stayer,” said Russell.

 

Ryan Mania rode his first winner since returning to the saddle as the Ann Hamilton-trained Rolecarr (6-1) lifted the £10,000 Timeform Jury Handicap Chase, beating the gallant Alan Mactaggart-trained Royal Mackintosh by a neck in a thrilling finish.

 

Alistair Whillans’ Gleann Na Ndochais (9-2), ridden by his son Ewan, won the Bunny Maitland-Carew Handicap Hurdle in great style and looks a smart prospect for owners Will & Margaret Scott.

 

Suprise Vendor (20-1), trained by Stuart Coltherd and ridden by Gary Rutherford, sealed a Borders double and Primrose Time (11-1) impressed for Lucy Normile and Alex Voy at Scotland’s final meeting of the year.

 

Kelso’s managing director Richard Landale said: “Staging a meeting for the first time between Christmas and New Year proved a great success and I also want to thank our loyal racegoers and sponsors for their great support this year.”