Yorkshire rider keeps victory in the family

There was a Yorkshire victory in the Coniston Hotel William Hanson Stakes when Robert Whitaker took first prize with Casino, upholding the family honour on home ground.
By The Newsroom
Published 14th Jul 2010, 00:13 BST
Updated 14th Jul 2010, 00:14 BST

The Whitaker family were out in force for the occasion but it was Robert who was on flying form in an exciting jump-off.

Ellen Whitaker and Locarno 62 were unexpected casualties in the first round, going out with four faults, as did Tim Stockdale with Fresh Direct KT and Geoff Billington and Upper Cut 11.

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However, 12 riders made light work of the course to go through to the jump-off but then the going got tough for even the best known names. Britain's leading rider, Ben Maher and Oscar ended up with eight faults as did Nick Skelton (Unique) and Northallerton's Paul Barker (Temple Ryefield). The recent Hickstead Derby winner Guy Williams and Skip Two Ramiro finished with four faults.

Only four riders went clear: Matthew Lanni and Ingliston Twister; Sian Price and Rambo 111; Timothy Davies and Valentijn O; and Robert Whitaker. Robert put in the speediest time of 44.22 seconds, followed by Timothy Davies with 44.85 and third place went to Matthew Lanni.

All 12 riders who got through to the jump-off will now be eligible to compete in the Cock o'the North championship tomorrow which is worth 7,000 in prize money.

Related topics:YorkshireNorthallertonBritain