Isabella Oliver achieves first winner under rules at fifth attempt before big move to Australia

Few jockeys have secured their first winner after just five rides under rules, but that’s what Isabella Oliver achieved in the opening 1m3½f handicap at Haydock.

The amateur rider guided home Haliphon to a two-and-a-half-length success for her boss Ian Williams, breaking the gelding's 25-month winless run.

The maiden victory is extra important for Oliver, who is the daughter of jumps trainer Henry Oliver, as she is set to continue her career in the saddle abroad.

“It’s a winner in the early stages of her career and it’s something she can build on when she gets to Australia,” said Williams. “She’s going at the end of October and she’s going to try and make her way as an amateur over there. She’s going to be based with Gai Waterhouse, I think. It’s the Australian dream!”

Haliphon’s last success in July 2022 was the second part of a two-race winning streak having landed a York handicap one month prior. And history could repeat itself next week as Williams has his eyes on the seven-year-old's next target.

“He’s probably got an opportunity to turn around at Epsom on Thursday in the Jump Jockeys Derby at a track he has really enjoyed in the past,” the trainer added. “Charlie Todd will probably ride not too dissimilar to how Bella has today.

“The boys who own Haliphon have been very helpful in Bella’s career because they actually provided her first ride in a charity event at Warwick last year, so it’s really nice to see them benefit from what they have put into her in the past.”

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