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.
Lion Of War came from well off the pace to land the £40,000 Edinburgh Cup in front of a sun-kissed crowd at Musselburgh.
A first winner at the track for Declan McDonogh, the combination appeared late on the scene to pip Coco Jack and stable companion Venetian.
Locally-born Jock Bennet, assistant to winning trainer Charlie Johnston, said: “That was a good effort as it’s difficult to come from so far back round here. He’s got a couple of options at Royal Ascot, which is where he might be going next.”o
Louis Steward was also opening his Musselburgh account when steering Saeed bin Suroor’s White Moonlight to victory in the Listed Edinburgh Gin Queen Of Scots Fillies’ Stakes.
“She had a good winter over in Dubai and she’s continued that form since she came home,” Steward said.
“I had one ride here before but I still had a good look round when I arrived. It’s a lovely track, but tight enough, so I kept things simple and rode her handy.”
Liamarty Dreams, trained by Karl Burke, battled on gamely for Sam James to pip Gioia Cieca in the Edinburgh Gin Classic Handicap.
James said: “The second horse definitely headed us for a stride or two but my fellow showed plenty of guts and determination. All his wins have come at seven-furlongs but I’d say he’s well worth another go at a mile.”
Veteran pilot Joe Fanning notched a double courtesy of David and Nicola Barron-trained duo Ahamoment and Viva Voce.