Cothelstone win gives Warner a three winner lead in title chase

Jason Warner is enjoying a purple patch as an owner presently, and his Thumb Stone Blues, trained by leading rider James King, put him further ahead in pursuit of a first Leading Owner title after a win at Cothelstone on Wednesday. 

Jason, who trains a few himself just outside Gloucester, opted for James to train this 1 1/2l winner of the Men's Open, and a tilt at Stratford must surely now be on the cards for the 11 year old, who has now totted up victories at Higham, Aldington, and Mollington before Wednesday's performance. 

"Leading trainer titles aren't really my thing," said Jason yesterday. "The horses are running well and we're enjoying it. I'm a little worse for wear after yesterday!" Every reason to celebrate I'd say. 

Meanwhile, our professional handlers are in fine form. Nigel Twiston-Davies enjoyed a cross card double yesterday from Fontwell and Perth with novice hurdler Chance A Tune and novice chaser Ballymoy. 

Ben Pauling enjoyed a handicap hurdle winner at Perth with Northern Bound, holding off Cotswold Neighbour Jonjo O'Neill's Wasdell Dundalk by 1/2l. 

And a new season hasn't stopped the Fergal O'Brien juggernaut, enjoying a sixth winner this month with City Derby in the maiden hurdle at Perth.