'I said sell him, now he's won seven' - ex-footballer's chaser scores again

Monday: Worcester

Former footballer and manager Alan Rogers was persuaded by trainer Laura Morgan to not put Clear The Runway on the transfer list after underperforming in his early days and following a remarkable seventh victory since February he carries absolutely no regrets.

Rogers' red and white silks are inspired by Nottingham Forest, for whom the defender played more than 100 matches before a brief stint in management with Tranmere Rovers.

Since retiring, his attention turned to racing and Rogers could hardly describe his delight after Clear The Runway continued his phenomenal year with an emphatic victory in the 2m½f handicap chase. It was his seventh win from nine starts, with the two defeats only narrow seconds.

"This horse has just given me so much joy, it's just been a dream," said Rogers, who has eight horses in training. "I think he's been unlucky too, he's won seven but it should've been nine on the bounce.

"I remember he ran disappointingly one day and I told Laura to just get rid of him as he's not genuine but she told me 'no, you don't see what he does at home'. That's why I'm the stupid owner and she's the boss.

"This is much better than football. I'm not sure why but I enjoy it more, days like this are amazing."

Clear The Runway's winning run started at Musselburgh off a rating of 98 before victories at Southwell, Market Rasen and Cartmel. Monday's ten-length win came off a mark of 135 but options are unknown due to his preference for better ground.

Global Citizen was pulled up before four out on his first appearance since landing the Grand Annual at the Cheltenham Festival, but trainer Ben Pauling reported him to be fine after the race.

Comeback success

Success for Monte Igueldo in the 2m maiden hurdle was a particularly satisfying one for connections following his treatment for an irregular heartbeat. He pulled clear in the final strides under Henry Brooke to get off the mark on the eighth attempt.

Jay Reardon, pupil assistant to trainers Oliver Greenall and Josh Guerriero, said: "We've had some serious issues with him but we've got him back on track at home. The lads did a great job and it's nice to finally see him live up to his rating. Henry gave him a super ride. Hopefully he's got a promising future."

Good day

Fergal O'Brien's fine start to the season continued with a double.

Aviewtosea made it three from four over fences with victory in the 2m7f novice handicap chase while Ted's Friend landed the handicap hurdle over the same distance.

O'Brien continues to top the jump trainers' standings and Monday's success raised his tally to 56 for the season.

Unbeaten jockey

Conditional jockey Bradley Roberts is yet to lose a race over jumps this season and claimed his third success of the campaign with If I Say in the 2m4f mares' novice handicap.

Results, replays and analysis

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