'He's going to make it - he'll be top class' - apprentice Keeley lauded again

Monday: Saturday

Aidan Keeley, fresh from winning the Cambridgeshire on Majestic last month, was tipped for stardom when Vape landed the 6f handicap under the 5lb claimer.

Keeley, whose grandfather Brian Rouse won the 1,000 Guineas on Quick As Lightning in 1980, gave Vape a fine steer, but winning trainer John Flint still had some pointers.

He said: "We had a bad draw, but Aidan is a good boy, a strong rider and I think he's going to make it – he'll be top class.

"He's very strong in the finish. He does need help and guidance from trainers, but he takes good, constructive criticism and learns from it. When a 5lb claimer does that and appreciates what people are trying to do for them, you know they're the real deal."

The Bridgend-based Flint, who described Vape as a pleasure to train, added: "Even when you win races, there is still room for reflection and Aidan let one down his inner there, which he should never have done, but it was the first thing he said to me when he came back in.

"He's based with Gary Moore, which is such a good yard to be at."

Rob Hornby: Jonathan Portman was a mentor to himCredit: Getty Images

Old pals reunite

Rob Hornby has enjoyed a breakthrough campaign, but has not forgot his roots and was beaming when steering Enochdhu to victory in the 1m2f nursery for Jonathan Portman.

"I love riding for Jonny, who is a great man to ride for," said the jockey, who has trebled his tally of Group 1 victories this term.

"His horses are thriving and he's having a really good year. He's got a great team behind him and has nice horses like this lad to look forward to."

Portman's most prolific campaign was in 2018 when he saddled 33 winners and Enochdhu's success means he is now seven adrift of that figure.

The popular Lambourn trainer hailed new assistant Ned Curtis's part in the victory and said: "Things have gone well and been consistent all the way through, which is great. We might be up against getting 33 winners, but we'll do our best."

Kevin Philippart de Foy: made a great start with Surrey MistCredit: Mark Cranham (racingpost.com/photos)

Mist appears in front

Surrey Mist made his first start for Kevin Philippart de Foy a winning one in the feature 1m3½f handicap.

He used to be trained by George Baker and runs in the yellow silks of Surrey Racing, whose Clive Hadingham said: "It was a hard decision to move him, but he's half-owned by Guy Pariente, who bred him and wanted someone French-speaking to communicate with better.

"He was well looked after by George and it's no reflection on him, he's here today and wished us well."

Harry hits back

Harry Davies hit back in the apprentice title race by winning the 6f maiden on Caleta Sunrise.

Davies is aiming to peg back Benoit de la Sayette and said: "Every winner counts and it's going to be tight – we're not going to let him have it easy.

"We can bring it back and I'm loving it. It's been a long year and we've achieved a lot anyway. It's been a dream start even if I don't win it."

Results, replays and analysis

Racing Post takes seriously its commitment to Safer Gambling and encourages people to stay within their limits and stay in control. If you would like to know more visit our dedicated Safer Gambling page here