'He seemed to enjoy himself' - Cougar makes most of change of tactics to gain first win since switch to Iain Jardine

Iain Jardine: trains four-time Southwell scorer Equidae

Iain Jardine: winning trainer of Cougar Credit: John Grossick (racingpost.com/photos)

Cougar recorded his first win since joining the Iain Jardine yard when making all under Mohammed Tabti.

The six-year-old, who started his career with Aidan O'Brien before joining Padraig Roche and then Ben Haslam, has been with Jardine’s yard since his 6,500gns purchase at a Tattersalls Online sale in February.

Sent to the front from the off on this occasion, he stormed away from his rivals to win the 1m4½f handicap by seven lengths.

The addition of first-time blinkers seemed to help in ending a losing streak that stretched back to 2022.

Speaking to Racing TV, Jardine said: "He seemed to enjoy himself out in front. He's got ability. If you look way back in his form he was a decent horse. He lost his way a wee bit, but he's a decent hurdler as well. He's won and that's the main thing."

Doubling up

Charlie Johnston and Jason Hart teamed up for a double with Kingsley Park-owned runners.

Parisian Scholar stepped up in trip in the mile nursery and, despite running green, charged past the leaders to post his first win by half a length.

Saxonia recorded his fourth win of the year when edging out Criminal Shore by a neck in the Class 5 mile handicap.

Joanna Mason also enjoyed a double, riding Keats House to victory in the Class 6 mile handicap for Mick and David Easterby before Filey Beach justified favouritism in the 7f handicap for Ruth Carr.

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