'This is what it's all about' - Davy Russell has first winner since shock return

Davy Russell celebrates his first winner back aboard Sa FureurCredit: Patrick McCann

Sunday: Punchestown

Davy Russell celebrated a first winner since coming out of retirement aboard Sa Fureur at Punchestown and said: "It feels great."

Russell announced on Wednesday he would return to race-riding less than a month after retiring, in order to help out trainer Gordon Elliott and his owners after Jack Kennedy had broken his leg for a fifth time at Naas last Sunday.

The dual Grand National-winning jockey was out of luck with two rides on his first day back at Fairyhouse on Saturday but struck aboard the Caldwell Construction-owned Sa Fureur on his second mount at Punchestown on Sunday in division two of the 2m maiden hurdle.

Sa Fureur, trained by Elliott, improved on a recent second at Limerick to score by four and three-quarter lengths at 3-1. The 5-4 favourite Bialystok finished third on his debut for Willie Mullins.

Sa Fureur clears the last on the way to victory at PunchestownCredit: Patrick McCann

"It feels great," said Russell. "Winning is what it's all about so it's great to be back in the winner's enclosure.

"The crowd is what makes it, the supporters that are here. They clapped me all the way into the parade ring and it's very nice. It's a cold day but there's some great racing on and the crowd appreciates it. If I'm giving joy to them, it makes it all worthwhile."

Russell had seemingly ridden the last winner of his glittering career aboard Liberty Dance at Thurles last month.

"You get a kick out of riding winners," said the 43-year-old. "I had a bit of a blow way too early on him and I was kicking myself turning in. I was panicking a bit and might have to take a deep breath now the next time.

"He was good though, he stayed well down to the line. He'll be a much nicer horse when he matures."

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Published on 15 January 2023inReports

Last updated 17:56, 15 January 2023

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