'It’s every apprentice’s dream' - Benoit de la Sayette wants championship tilt

Saturday: Lingfield

Benoit de la Sayette, who dreams of being champion apprentice, put another win on the board since his return to the track as Night On Earth took the feature 5f handicap.

The young jockey made virtually all on the Michael Appleby-trained four-year-old, who held on gamely to fend off the late challenge of the Les Eyre-trained Bedford Flyer.

De la Sayette said: "He pinged the gates and caught me by surprise a bit. He’s the sort of horse that doesn’t want anyone to go past him; he fights to the line and showed that today."

On his aspirations for the season he added: "It’s every apprentice’s dream to be champion apprentice, so I would like to have a crack at it this year. I’m just lucky enough to have so many positive trainers behind me and owners, so all thanks to them really."

The apprentice was having just his sixth ride since returning from a ban and expressed his love for the sport.

"I’m just grateful to everyone for giving me a second chance," he said. "I just want to prove to them that this is something that I love and something that I have dreamed about since a young age."

Space Tracker wins on debut for Richard HughesCredit: Mark Cranham

Stellar performance

Space Tracker made a winning debut in fine style for Richard Hughes in the 7f novice stakes. The three-year-old made headway from midfield under David Egan before leading inside the final furlong to win by one and three-quarter lengths from the Andrew Balding-trained Distant Light.

Results, replays and analysis

Over 50% off Racing Post Members' Club!Members' Club is the only subscription racing fans and punters need in order to stay informed and make smarter betting decisions. Features include early access to the Racing Post digital newspaper, exclusive news and interviews, premium tips and form study tools to assist with betting. Select 'Get Ultimate Monthly' and enter code TRYME to get your first month for just £14.99* – that's better than half price!

Subscribe now

If you decide that Members' Club is not for you, then you can cancel at anytime by contacting us.

*Members' Club Ultimate Monthly first month will be charged at £14.99, renews at full price thereafter