Horse racing: First win for the Tay Valley group

Nov 28 2008 by Gordon Bannerman, Perthshire Advertiser Friday

A PERTH racing syndicate this week toasted their first winner.

The Tay Valley Chasers’ Racing Club was formed earlier in the year, with the majority of their 82 members enjoying bonds with Perth Racecourse.

But their milestone success was savoured at Ayr when Prosecco, their second horse, romped home at 4/1.

It was the second leg of a double for Milnathort trainer Lucinda Russell, with Quws Law also first past the post to claim a 100th win for the stable and jockey Peter Buchanan.

George Godsman, the Chasers’ managing partner, said: “It was a memorable day, especially for the nine syndicate members who made the trip to Ayr. Prosecco is Italian sparkling wine and that was appropriate for the celebrations!

“We bought the six-year-old gelding in September after he had finished second at Perth. Before that he had been leased but he looks the genuine article and we made the decision to buy.

“It was a fantastic result for the Chasers and a memorable day for Lucinda and Peter as they chalked up their 100th winner.”

George always believed there would be race fans keen to join the Chasers.

He explained: “I said we would cap it at 100 and we’re working towards that figure. There has been more interest after this week’s win.

“It costs £300 for the year and that makes ownership affordable.

“It was some feeling for everyone concerned when Prosecco won at Ayr. It was exciting, that’s for sure - a real landmark for the Chasers.

“It came in from 5-1 to be joint favourite and it’s fair to say we had a few bob on our horse!”

Anyone wanting a piece of the action can contact George, Viewlands Place, on 07885 593255.

Prosecco’s next run is expected to be either at Kelso on December 7 or Haydock on December 20.

Lucinda and Peter were forced to endure a frustrating two weeks before finally passing the century mark at Ayr.

It was five years ago that trainer and stable jockey teamed-up.

The 30-year-old finance graduate calculates he recently rode his 1000th ride for the Kinross-shire yard.

He said: “We’ve grown together and Lucinda deserves plenty of credit for increasing the quality and quantity of horse I’m getting to ride now. She has a lot of confidence in me and that’s great for a jockey. I could not be happier with the way things are going.”