Just 2nd place but a fine run by Stainsby Girl

Sometimes you've just got to accept that a better handicapped horse came out on top.

Such was the case at Haydock yesterday in the 2m 3f Class 3 0-130 handicap hurdle when Stainsby Girl led from the 2nd flight to the run-in but was collared by Philip Hobbs' 9 year old French import Celebre D'Allen, making an appearance after more than 2 years off the track.

This was a fine performance by Stainsby Girl (well ridden by Craig Nichol) in her first run at more than 2 miles since pulling too hard over 2m 4f a couple of seasons ago.
Craig had a couple of options in mind for the mare and after she uprooted the first when being restrained in 4th, Stainsby Girl moved to the front, travelling strongly and jumping very well. She was still in the lead turning for home with 3 to jump but with the pack closing in. Craig was mindful of doubts about seeing out the trip so kept a hold of her head until approaching the last and rode her a few lengths clear. But Celebre D'Allen had always been travelling threatening well and came past on the long run-in to win by just over a length.
The remainder of the 11-strong field were quite well strung out behind.

It's interesting to note that although Stainsby Girl was running off bottom weight, she received only 5lb from the impressive winner which is 2lb less than if this was a conditions race.

Stainsby Girl appreciated the heavy going which had changed from the 'soft' description during the course of the day. There were 5 non runners mostly due to the underfoot conditions but we were delighted by the performance and she stayed on gamely from 2 out, even when headed towards the finish.

Georgina leads in Stainsby Girl (Craig Nichol) after a gallant 2nd at Haydock