Vintage weekend for Sam James capped by 999-1 in-running win on Kermouster

Jockey Sam James could be seen shaking his head in frustration after a poor start on Kermouster looked to have cost him a winning opportunity at Ripon on Sunday – but a phenomenal late surge to the line enabled the filly to claim an unlikely victory having been matched at the maximum 999-1 (1000) in running on Betfair.

A total of £4.84 was matched at 999-1 (1000), while £1,367 was traded on runner-up Ascot Dreamer at 1-33 (1.03).

Watch Kermouster's extraordinary win at Ripon

Reflecting on the unlikely neck triumph, trainer Grant Tuer said: "I thought our chance had gone when she was slowly away. The plan was to be handy, as you need to be there, and Sam was shaking his head after 50 yards because the chance had been blown.

Kermouster (circled) is almost out of shot after making a slow startCredit: Sky Sports Racing

"But the race sort of played into our hands. As they had gone so hard and fast up front they all stopped and we picked them up.

"We thought we had a good chance but if you were a traditional punter you would have ripped up your ticket after 20 yards – fortunately it's all electronic these days!"

Kermouster still has plenty on her plate as they pass the furlong poleCredit: Sky Sports Racing

The 6f handicap victory put the seal on a great weekend for James, who rode three winners in two days to level last year's tally of 11, putting him firmly on course to beat his best total of 25, which was achieved in 2014.

James, who also rode a winner for David Simcock and Phillip Makin at Thirsk on Saturday, said: "I don't really know how she won but it was great! From 100 yards out I thought she'd end up an unlucky third, but she really picked up."

He added: "Things have been going well, I've had a few winners this weekend for a few different trainers so I'm fortunate to pick up those rides. I'll just keep trying to get as many winners as I can."

Six of James's winners this year have come for Tuer, who said of the ride: "He's done very well, it was a great move to go wide and if he didn't he probably wouldn't have won."

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