'It must have been luck!' - Fell's alternative plan pays off with Cockalorum

Roger Fell was left rejoicing after a drop in trip combined with front-running tactics worked a treat as Cockalorum proved too strong for Amaysmont in the feature 1m1f handicap.

Over a trip Fell conceded may have been too short when speaking for a preview in the Racing Post on Monday, the six-year-old made all under Jason Hart with his stamina eventually proving the difference.

When asked about how his plan had come to fruition, Fell said: "It must have been luck! Every time we've run him up until the last two starts we've been covering him up but I don't think he wants that.

"It's funny how you learn about horses by experimenting. He loved the test in the closing stages when the other horse came to him and his stamina has just carried him home.

"We don't have a target in mind yet but what we'd want is a handicap over a mile and two where he can get on with it. A front-running course like York might suit."

Crowds return

There were 250 spectators on track for the first time in Scotland this year and plenty were cheering after the success of even-money favourite Smart Lass in the 1m4½f handicap.

Owner Gerry McGladery said: "She's very smart and it's at my home track as well. The ground was perfect and Iain [Jardine, trainer] was confident before the race. We targeted this as it's my favourite course.

"Even with just 250 people here today there was a great atmosphere. It's so great to have it all coming back."

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