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| Staff Writer |
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David and Nicola Barron, a father-and-daughter training team, celebrated their first victory at Royal Ascot with Pilgrim in the Palace Of Holyroodhouse Handicap.
The win marked the sixth success for Yorkshire trainers at this year's Royal Meeting, joining the ranks of Ed Bethell, Karl Burke, and Kevin Ryan.
Pilgrim, owned by Digby Atkinson, was skillfully ridden by the experienced Joe Fanning, triumphing over Blue Storm, No Half Measures, and Woodhay Wonder by half a length, three quarters of a length, and a head, respectively.
Fanning said: “We have liked Pilgrim a lot since he was a 2YO old. I thought it was a weak race at Musselburgh he won, but he got hammered in the handicap and I was kicking myself a bit to win by that far [five and a half lengths].
“He is genuine and very straightforward. The boss said to change tactics today to probably get a lead, as it’s hard to make it here. He travelled so comfortably all the way and won really well.
“I like his attitude. I think this is his trip – he’s sharpened up a bit since last year, but we did like him and then he was gelded over the winter and he’s filled out.”
Winning owner Digby Atkinson said: “Pilgrim has run a great race. He ran a good race last time out, and to win here today, at the Royal Meeting, is marvellous. It really is fantastic. We’ve had a horse come third here before, so to have a winner is exceptional.
“He won by five and a half lengths at Musselburgh, and we thought Joe might have overegged it, but in hindsight, the handicapper put him up 11lb. If he hadn’t, he wouldn’t have been here today because he wouldn’t have got in.”
1st- Pilgrim (H D Atkinson) David & Nicola Barron / Joe Fanning
2nd- Blue Storm (David Lowe) Gemma Tutty / Hollie Doyle
3rd- No Half Measures (R Gallagher) Richard Hughes / George Rooke