Horizon Parking Raceday Delivers Competitive Action

Perth Racecourse welcomed racegoers for an entertaining afternoon of National Hunt racing on Thursday as Horizon Parking Raceday served up competitive finishes, surprise results and several impressive performances across the card.

The biggest shock of the day came in the Secure Air Parks Edinburgh Airport Parking Handicap Chase, where Button Rock caused a 28/1 upset on his debut for trainer Andrew Hamilton.

Making his first start over fences under Derek Fox, the gelding produced a strong late run to sweep past Wasdell Dundalk on the run-in, scoring by two and a half lengths.

Button Rock was purchased for just £1,800 from Gordon Elliott's yard, making the victory all the sweeter for his new connections.

Hamilton said: "Gordon said he would jump a fence so that's not a surprise to me although it was fairly late on that I was really confident. We haven't had him too long and he's been schooling and doing all the right things."

Earlier on the card, Scriabin finally broke his duck over hurdles at the 25th attempt, landing the Horizon Group Maiden Hurdle for trainers Lucinda Russell and Michael Scudamore.

Sent off the well-backed 11/10 favourite, Scriabin showed plenty of determination under Patrick Wadge, holding off Try Them by three-quarters of a length.

Wadge was delighted with the performance, saying: "He's beginning to settle down a bit and enjoyed that - he's an easier ride now. Coming over the last I thought we were going to win here last time and I guess that's the route he will be going down again after this although chasing will be his game eventually."

There was also a notable success for Pergamon, who continued his excellent recent form by completing a hat-trick in the Kettle Produce Handicap Hurdle despite carrying top weight.

Trainer Jennie Candlish's progressive hurdler battled on gamely under Bill Shanahan, who said afterwards: "It was a big weight for him to carry so that was a good effort as his jumping was only okay. His races have been well spaced out so I would imagine he'll be freshened up again before his next run."

The afternoon once again showcased the competitive racing and welcoming atmosphere that have become hallmarks of the Perth season.

Racing returns to Perth Racecourse on Sunday 12 July for our ever-popular Family Raceday, featuring thrilling jump racing alongside a fantastic programme of family entertainment. With free activities for children and Under 18s admitted FREE, it's the perfect summer day out for all ages.

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