Gordon Brown – Race Reporter
Gordon has a wealth of experience of racing through his background in the written and broadcast media. His current principle role is reporting and supporting the scene in Scotland on Racing TV and relaying the latest news with Scottish angles.
MIDLOTHIAN teenager Conner McCann had an afternoon to remember when winning on his first jumps ride at Musselburgh on Wednesday.
The 17-year-old, from Penicuik, near Edinburgh struck on Lucinda Russell-trained 11/8 favourite Diamond State in the opening Jumps Are Back On Racing TV Conditional Jockeys’ Handicap Hurdle.
“I’ve had half a dozen mounts on the Flat but I’d never ridden over jumps before and it’s amazing,” he said. “In the end we won pretty well and it’s great to be part of such a big yard.”
Russell, who went on to complete a double with Stephen Mulqueen-ridden Izzy’s Champion, said that she rates McCann highly and that he would be riding for the yard on the Flat and over hurdles.
Nick Alexander also completed a double, in his case with Broadway Joe and Wakool, both partnered by reigning champion conditional Danny McMenamin.
The Kinneston trainer said: “Our horses are running well at the moment and we will probably give Broadway Joe a month off now as he’s had two quick runs. Wakool was pretty fit for his comeback and he is a consistent horse who has improved for the step up to three miles.”
Donald McCann and Brian Hughes were others that teamed up for a double courtesy of Collingham and Ramble West, who were both making their debut under Rules.