Fine fifth leads to dream Cheltenham debut for Ursa Major

Ashington exceeded our wildest dreams at Cheltenham - by finishing a fine fifth with our first runner at the track.

Mark Walford produced the seven-year-old in beautiful condition and his hurdling was dreamlike in the 2m5f Conditional Jockey’s Handicap Hurdle.

Jumping two out the 28/1 chance held every chance, before staying on up hill, just pipped by a couple of rivals for what looked a third placed finish.

It was a dream day for owners, who gave Ashington a heroes welcome - and now more big days are on the horizon for this incredible flagbearer.

Racing Manager Craig Talbot said: “He finished fifth so this may sound funny, but it is one of our best ever performances.

“We had 16 owners on the track and the buzz in the owners’ bar and parade ring before and after was like nothing I have ever felt.

“We were joined by Mark Walford and it was truly a day we will never forget.”

Mark Walford said: “It was a tremendous occasion to join the Ursa members at Cheltenham and to go with a horse who had a chance is what you want.

“His hurdling was excellent and there are plenty of options on big days open to us now.”

On a historic day for Ursa, Kath’s Toyboy was so close to bringing home another win, beaten a nose at Wolverhampton, while Cabinet Maker ran a solid fourth at Newcastle.

Texas Boy came ninth at Gosforth Park.