'I want to be the next Davy' - ambitious rider unruffled by Russell u-turn

Jordan Gainford has said his confidence has not been knocked by Davy Russell's dramatic return from retirement, which has deprived him of being Gordon Elliott's number one while Jack Kennedy is out injured.

Indeed, the young rider said he remains as ambitious as ever in his quest to become one of Ireland's leading jump jockeys.

Gainford celebrated his first Grade 1 win at home when guiding Gerri Colombe to victory in the Faugheen Novice Chase at Limerick over Christmas. He looked all set to be promoted to the top of Elliott's pecking order when Kennedy broke his leg for a fifth time at Naas, but Russell's decision to come out of retirement means he will have to wait a little longer.