Kandahari and Killian Leonard (right, orange cap)© Photo Healy Racing
The Let's Get Lucky Racing Club got off the mark in some style with their first horse at Gowran today as Kandahari landed an ‘emotional’ win in Golf Membership Gowran Apprentice Handicap for trainer John McConnell and jockey Killian Leonard.
The daughter of Archipenko, who is out of a Sadler’s Wells sired mare, gained her only previous win, for owner Kirsten Rausing, at the same venue on similarly soft ground last September and today scored a length win over No Way Jack
After today’s win, McConnell revealed “there are 20 members in the syndicate and there are five here today.
“I’d like to give a shout out to Gavin who is in America and is one of the guys who is heavily involved. He was watching the race on Facetime and I don’t think I’ve ever seen a grown man cry as much!
"One of the men on track was Facetiming through the whole race to him and he was bawling crying at the end of the phone. He was very emotional about it and takes a big role in the group.”
He added “I’m delighted for them and they’re really enthusiastic. For not too much expense it’s great and the important thing is to get a horse like this who can run well consistently and that’s what she does and tries her heart out.
“The ground is important to her and I wouldn’t mind stepping up in trip with her and while she’s in at the weekend, Listowel (in September) would definitely suit.
Quotes from Alan Magee
