'Everyone's overwhelmed' - Ayr winner scores for owner who passed away last week

Strong Economy provided an emotional victory in the 3m handicap chase for the family of Barry MacDonald, who co-owned the horse with his father Alan and who passed away last week.

The Ian Duncan-trained eight-year-old held off the challenge of Up Helly Aa King to win by a length under Derek Fox with Barry's family all present at the track.

"It's an emotional success and a dream for the horse to win today for Barry, his parents and wife and three children," said victorious trainer Duncan.

Strong Economy: co-owned by the late Barry MacDonaldCredit: Grossick Racing

"I spoke to his mother at the end of last week when I heard the news and asked what they wanted to do. She said she wanted to run the horse and they'd all be there.

"The horse pulled out all the stops today to win for them. Everyone is overwhelmed by the circumstances. Barry was a terrific guy who loved his horses."

89th time lucky for Shanahan

William Shanahan finally enjoyed the feeling of riding a winner as the 7lb claimer broke his duck on his 89th ride in Britain when Crackdeloust won the 2m conditional jockeys' handicap hurdle, a moment he admitted looked as if it would never happen.

"I've been knocking on the door at times and just to get it over the line is brilliant," said Shanahan, who punched the air in delight as he crossed the line.

Crackdeloust (right): gives William Shanahan his first winner on his 89th rideCredit: Grossick Racing

"It was looking like it was never going to happen to be honest. The horse was brilliant and travelled everywhere."

Richards lands treble

Nicky Richards could have two classy Trevor Hemmings-owned prospects in his yard after Wetlands and Marown justified short prices to land two comfortable victories for the Cumbrian trainer.

Both were ridden by Brian Hughes, who extended his lead over Harry Cobden in the champion jockey standings to ten, with Richards completing a treble on the day with Nells Son in the bumper.

Results, replays and analysis

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