'It’s given me another chance' - Williamson opens up after winning on Lone Star

Monday: Newcastle

Jockey Joe Wiilliamson opened up about his struggles off the track after landing the 2m4½f handicap hurdle on Lone Star, who was winning her first race at the eleventh attempt.

The jockey, who ended a barren spell stretching back to May, told Sky Sports Racing: “I just wanted to get there at the right time so I could swing past the leader and go on. She’s done it nicely and it’s just great to get back in the winner’s enclosure.

"It’s been a while for me – there’s been an awful lot going on. In the summer I had to take a bit of time out.

"I struggled with alcohol and I wasn’t really dealing with that part of my life. The PJA [Professional Jockeys Association] and Sporting Chance were fantastic.

"I spent a month in the Tony Adams rehab facility and it saved my life and turned it around. It’s given me another chance and I owe a huge amount to Philip [Kirby, trainer of Lone Star], Pippa and my family for sticking by me. Hopefully we can kick on from here.”

Cruise Control

Cruz Control made a winning hurdling debut in the 2m1f novice on his reappearance under Stan Sheppard.

The five-year-old, who was last seen when seventh in a Grade 2 bumper at Aintree in April, ran out an eight-length winner despite a scare when jumping awkwardly three out.

Results, replays and analysis

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