KELSO REVIEW - SATURDAY 7th NOVEMBER 2009

By Bill Harvey

 

Robson thrilled as Albanov stars in Kelso showcase

 

 

Pauline Robson produced a tremendous training performance as Albanov (11-1) lifted the £20,000 Mayfield Restaurant Chase on his first start for the Northumberland yard at Kelso on Saturday 7 November.

 

Richard McGrath’s mount, formerly with Jessica Harrington in Ireland, beat Calatagan by one and a quarter lengths in gallant style after being sidelined since February 2008.

 

“I’m chuffed with him. We’ve had him since June and it’s great to see him returning to winning form as he had serious leg injuries,” said the elated former Northern Area ladies’ point-to-point champion.

 

Sandy Forster’s Justwhateverulike (16-1), owned by Kelso steward Peter Innes, won the Premier Traffic Management Handicap Chase under Tom Messenger and is to be aimed at the Borders National at Kelso on Sunday 6 December.

 

Bob’s Dream (5-2 fav), ridden by Harry Haynes, repeated his Carlisle success for Willie Amos to seal a Borders brace in the Tinnis Celebration Handicap Chase.

 

Glingerbank (8-1) won the Graeme Todd Haulage and Friends Handicap Hurdle for Nicky Richards under a determined Brian Harding.

 

Waterski (11-2) gained a deserved victory for Kinross trainer Jean McGregor in the novices’ handicap chase with Ryan Mania’s mount winning by a short-head.

 

McMurrough (2-1) battled to his first hurdling success for Malcolm Jefferson and Phil Kinsella in the Rutherford Seat-sponsored opener in front of a 3700 crowd.

 

Albanov

Winning The £20,000 Mayfield Restaurant Steeple Chase
for Mr MichaelH Watt, Pauline Robson & Richard McGrath

(Photograph Courtesy of John Grossick Photography)