'The buzz was there' - Bryony Frost makes winning return after six months out

Bryony Frost made a triumphant return to the saddle aboard Zikany in the 2m handicap for professional jump jockeys at Goodwood on Sunday.

The Amanda Perrett-trained four-year-old travelled powerfully throughout and went clear at the furlong pole before holding off the challenge of the fast-finishing Tralee Hills under Nico de Boinville.

Frost had been on the sidelines since April 7 after fracturing a vertebra in her back at Aintree's Grand National meeting.

"Just awesome, he's a complete pro," Frost told Racing TV. "With the jumps ground being a bit firm at the minute, Amanda Perrett and Sam Stronge asked if I wanted to ride him, so I took the opportunity.

"I thought it was a great place to start and an amazing track to ride. It's been a long time off track but the buzz was there.

"I was actually thinking when he travelled strongly to the front, 'Oh no, this'll be it, I'll hit the front and then get swallowed on the line'. Luckily he kept me going all the way.

Zikany storms to victory at Goodwood under Bryony FrostCredit: Alan Crowhurst

"He was a really happy horse out there and he loved the step up in trip. He was back on his last winning mark and everything was looking right for him."

It has been a long road to recovery for the 27-year-old but there is no sweeter feeling than a winning return.

"To come back on a winner is absolutely awesome and I can't thank the team enough for it," added Frost.

"It was a long process but it's not our first time being out for so long, we know what to do with our body now to get it back 110 per cent."

The six-time Grade 1-winning rider is set to make her return over obstacles at Fakenham on Friday, where she booked to ride for Lucy Wadham.

Results, replays and analysis

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