Charity race win for Frankel’s buddy

A last-minute entry for First Mohican in a charity race run in aid of the Injured Jockey’s Fund (IJF) proved a fruitful decision for trainer Alan King and jockey Liz Ampairee at Sunday’s Point-to-Point Owners and Riders Point-to-Point at Barbury Castle Racecourse.

Sent off the 6/4 favourite First Mohican never looked threatened by the other 11 runners and riders in the later stages of the mile-long race, eventually winning by 15 lengths, providing a home win for the Barbury Estate. First Mohican is trained by Barbury resident and leading National Hunt trainer Alan King and was ridden by Liz Ampairee, who is from Salisbury and regularly rides out for King.

As well as being a smart performer on the Flat and over hurdles, First Mohican’s former role when trained by the late Sir Henry Cecil was as a ‘work’ companion to the Champion racehorse Frankel.

Following the race, a breathless Ampairee said about her mount: “What a buzz! To ride a horse like First Mohican is just a dream come true and to win at Barbury whilst raising funds for the IJF is the icing on the cake.

“Everyone who took part in race deserved to win and I feel very lucky. First Mohican’s owner Henry Ponsomby has also been a great sport and I am very grateful for his support and to all of Alan King’s team for this unforgettable experience.”

Finishing in second place was Pandora Bailey from Hungerford riding Offshore Account and Tik Saunders, daughter-in-law of Grand National winning rider Dick Saunders, in third on board Royal Etiquette.

In total the 12 riders raised over £15,000 for the IJF, which was established in 1964 and has evolved into one of the most recognised charities within horseracing, helping over 1,000 jockeys and their families and paying out more than £18 million in charitable assistance.

For more information see www.ppora.co.uk and www.injuredjockeys.co.uk. To donate £5 text IJF to 70800.

Photo: Liz Ampairee and First Mohican race to victory; image courtesy of Point-to-Point Owners and Riders Point-to-Point at Barbury Castle Racecourse; photograph by Graftonwood/Jackie Oliver

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