'The support from the racing community has been unreal' - Kathy Turner has emotional first win since taking over from her late father

Kathy Turner was full of emotion after saddling her first winner since taking over the training licence from her father Bill, who died last month aged 78.

Bill Turner started his career as a jockey before embarking on a training career that spanned six decades. He became well known for striking with two-year-olds, particularly his six winners of the Brocklesby at Doncaster.

Turner was surrounded by friends and family as The Dark Baron defied market expectations to run out the 22-1 winner of the opening 1m2f handicap. 

The three-year-old made good headway to lead entering the final furlong and went on to win by three lengths under Laura Coughlan.

The Dark Baron was Turner’s fifth runner since taking over the licence, and the victory was a poignant one.

“It’s been a tough five or six weeks,” she told Sky Sports Racing. “We had Dad’s funeral on Friday. This is just brilliant. All the support from the racing community has been unreal; it has made it easier. I know he was loved, but the support has just been amazing.”

Carroll double

Trainer Tony Carroll had two runners on the card, and went home with two winners. 

Cindy Lou Who backed up last month’s success at the course with victory in the 5½f handicap under William Carson, before Son Of Astar kept on well in the final strides to win the 5f handicap by a neck, despite rider Jack Doughty dropping his whip in the final furlong. 

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