'This isn't a wind up!' - Max Young delighted to get first winner under rules

Max Young is hoping his training operation can blossom in 2021 after a tough start to life in the ranks following his landmark first winner under rules with Ferrobin's surprise success in the selling hurdle.

The Worcestershire trainer enjoyed success in the point-to-point sphere before making the decision to take out his National Hunt licence in the summer, but had suffered frustration in his first few months of training, including when the six-year-old was second in a similar race at Leicester earlier this month.

However, he got off the mark at the 35th attempt in the 2m½f contest with the 12-1 shot, who registered a smooth victory under a fine ride by James Best.

"This isn't a wind up!", he joked. "It's our first winner under rules and we are absolutely delighted. It's more of a relief than anything to get the first one on the board. If it wasn't for Covid-19 we'd be having a big party tonight.

"As silly as it sounds, the prices didn't reflect his chances. James gave him a peach of a ride and won going away."

The trainer has 14 horses in his care for his maiden season under rules and hopes Ferrobin's success will increase the yard's fortunes.

He added: "It's been a difficult start as we've not had many horses that are handicapped, so it's been slow. It's nice when a plan comes together, it might only be a seller but a win is a win.

"It's great to have a horse like this; hopefully it'll all go in the right direction."

Kent continues terrific time with local success

Nick Kent has enjoyed a fantastic festive period and his fortunes continued at his local track when Who's In The Box came out on top of a thrilling finish to the Lincolnshire National.

Kent, who trains just 15 miles away from Market Rasen, took his impressive strike-rate to 50 per cent with the six-year-old's neck victory in the feature contest and maintained his spot as the most in-form trainer in Britain.

Long Lincolnshire journey pays off for Bowen

The 307-mile cross-country journey from West Walesto Lincolnshire paid dividends for Peter Bowen afterthe Pembrokeshire trainer scooped the spoils with Mac Tottie's 14-1 surprise success in the 2m5½f handicap chase.

Read more:

No spectators in England as government tightens Covid restrictions

'I love everything about him' - our experts assess the Gold Cup dangers to Photo

Tramore task made easier for Gold Cup hero Al Boum Photo as Monalee not declared

Nicky Henderson yard to enter short shutdown following Kempton flops

Results, replays and analysis

Ultimate Daily - our daily newsletters from Racing Post's experts, exclusive to the inbox of Ultimate Members' Club subscribers. To receive the newsletter subscribe at racingpost.com/members-club