Cool Country delivers emotional victory for Todhunter and late owner Jim Gordon

Thursday: Sedgefield

Cool Country shrugged off his maiden tag to secure a heartwarming success in the colours of the late Jim Gordon in the 3m handicap chase.

Gordon, who died last November at the age of 77, was a loyal owner to several trainers based in the north, including Cool Country’s trainer Martin Todhunter.

“Jim was a big supporter of mine and I'm delighted to have trained another winner in his colours,” said Todhunter.

Cool Country was winning for the first time at the 13th attempt, having fallen when challenging at the final fence in his last race at Catterick.

“He might have only been third anyway last time,” Todhunter added.

“He’s been a slow learner and is only just coming to himself. The change in tactics riding him closer to the pace made a difference.”

Anxious for Ashington

Ashington was sent off at a short price to secure back-to-back victories in the 2m4f handicap hurdle but gave his supporters a few anxious moments before coming through to justify odds of 6-5.

“He's made hard of work of it but I don’t think he liked the ground – they put a lot of water on it,” said trainer Brian Ellison.

“He’ll be out again before the end of season and might go over fences.”

Terrific treble

Donald McCain maintained his rich vein of form as he secured a treble with Red Vision and Away At Dawn – both partnered by Brian Hughes – and Brother Pat. The latter was left to come home alone after 1-3 shot Guetapan Collonges fell at the 13th.

Results, replays and analysis

Sign up to receive The Ante-Postman, Robbie Wilders' new weekly newsletter. Get weekend tips, Cheltenham Festival fancies and big-race selections delivered straight to your inbox.