Kalganov off the mark as we enjoy first winner with Michael Dods

It was a day of firsts for us at Newcastle - a winner, a first victory with Michael Dods and Phil Dennis’s first winner back from injury.

Kalganov ground down the field in the 7f handicap at Newcastle to finish well on top at odds of 9/1.

It was our first winner since having horses with Grade One winner Michael Dods - and it made it even more special to give Phi Dennis his first winner back after recovering from serious injury.

Phil has been a big part of the Ursa story so far and it is always great to see him win in the Battenbergs.

Racing Manager Craig Talbot said: “It was a brilliant run from Kalganov and special to get off the mark with Michael and team.

“We had been impressed with what we had seen in Kalganov’s first two starts for us and the headgear brought about that little bit of extra improvement.

“He has proven a bargain buy for his owners and an early Christmas present for us all.”