Third Time Lucky victory leads to marriage proposal by York racegoer

The Richard Fahey team weren't the only winners at York on July 27 as Third Time Lucky's victory in the mile handicap was the catalyst for one racegoer to propose to his girlfriend.

Rory Paddock, 30, who was taking his partner Samantha to a racetrack for the first time on the wet summer's evening, was asked by his significant other for his thoughts on Third Time Lucky's chances in the handicap and readily dismissed the six-year-old's prospects, suggesting that if the gelding were to win the race he would propose to her.

"Needless to say Third Time Lucky stormed to victory by two and a quarter lengths," said Paddock. "Months later I purchased the ring and thought it appropriate that I asked for Third Time Lucky’s blessing.

"I emailed Richard Fahey’s yard and didn’t expect a response, but Richard was fantastic and sent a video back of the horse giving his permission. A horse will never cost me so much money."

Women in Racing rebrand

Women in Racing has launched a new website, womeninracing.co.uk, with enhanced features ahead of its tenth anniversary in 2019.

The organisation, which was founded by Sally Rowley-Williams in 2009 and supports and promotes the careers of women in the sport, has introduced a new members' area on the website aimed at encouraging networking between its expanding pool of members.

Julie Deadman, chair of the group, said: "2019 is an important milestone for Women in Racing. Since its formation we have seen greater engagement in the debate about the role and impact of women across the sport.

"We would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has supported Women in Racing over the last ten years and particularly every woman who has served on the committee and played a vital role in Women in Racing’s ongoing success."

Members can read the latest exclusive interviews, news analysis and comment available from 6pm daily on racingpost.com