Elsworth praise for Alarazi

One of the most prestigious wins of the Guiseley-born rider’s career, Elsworth was fearful that he would not have many Festival rides this week because of his 14-month lay-off with a career-threatening concussion injury.

However, Alarazi is now a leading contender for Friday’s County Hurdle, a prospect made even more enticing by the allure of a £75,000 bonus from the sponsors if the horse completes a short-notice double.

Elsworth was full of praise for the horse who is trained in Newmarket by Lucy Wadham.

“He does travel very well, it’s just a matter of getting him settled,” explained the jockey after his 12th, and most high-profile win of his comeback.

“This was a step up in class – you go a better gallop in these races and that suited him.

“As he was travelling so well I was able to hold a position, which was very handy.”