'It's nice to have one we can run locally' - Uncle Al gives Jessica Bedi her first winner at Sedgefield

Uncle Al, ridden by Aaron Anderson (left), wins at SedgefieldCredit: John Grossick

Yorkshire trainer Jessica Bedi enjoyed her first winner at Sedgefield, and her first jumps success of the season, when Uncle Al produced a battling performance to land the 2m5f novices' handicap chase by a nose.

It was the 25th runner Bedi has taken to her local track, just 20 miles from her 13-strong yard.

Uncle Al was hampered at the first fence by Sam’s Falcon and had to use plenty of energy early on to get back into contention under Aaron Anderson. But he continued to find more down the straight and got up to prevail in a photo finish with Huit Reflets.

Jessica Bedi: enjoyed her first double at Perth on Monday

Jessica Bedi: welcome jumps winnerCredit: JOHN GROSSICK

Bedi said: “All he’s done is improve since we switched him to fences, and it’s really helped his concentration too. After being hampered he had plenty of time to get back into it, and Aaron gave him such a patient ride. He battled so well to the line and we’re all really happy with him.

“We haven’t had many horses we’d target at Sedgefield over the last couple of years, so it’s nice to have one in the yard we can run locally."

On any plans for a celebration, she said: “Dave Fitch, who runs the owners’ group Peak Racing, is going to stop by and we’ll have a glass of fizz - we’re over the moon to have a winner for him.”

Treble for Hughes

Brian Hughes rode a treble, with the first two winners coming for trainer Patrick Neville. Buddha Castle took the 2m4f maiden hurdle before Upfordebate landed the 3m2½f handicap chase.

Hughes then won the 2m bumper aboard Grazeon Sunshine for John and Sean Quinn.

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