'The stars were aligned' - Leech family celebrate emotional win at Newcastle

Thursday: Newcastle

The wet and miserable conditions could not stop amateur jockey Roisin Leech from brightening up the day after she steered veteran Applesandpierres to an emotional victory.

Riding the 14-year-old to his first success in over two years, the jockey secured her first career win in the feature 2m handicap hurdle on a horse owned by her late grandfather Carl, and trained by her mother Sophie.

"It was an emotional day," said Sophie Leech. "It was obviously Roisin’s first winner and Christian’s [assistant trainer] late father’s horse, so the stars were aligned for sure and it was a wonderful moment.

"It was his last horse before he passed away, so it made it even more special."

Roisin Leech on the way to landing the featureCredit: Grossick Racing

The 22-1 winner, who was previously trained by Dan Skelton, could end his career in style if the Leech family decide to retire him.

Sophie added: "We thought before the race it would be his last, but we don't know yet. Maybe it will be because it can’t get better than this and we might go out on a high.

"It’s a great team effort to keep him in this condition at his age and it was just a thrill for everyone involved."

Speaking to Sky Sports Racing after her win, Roisin said: "They are my grandfather's colours, who sadly passed away a couple of years ago, so it’s so special to ride my first winner."

Closing in

Trainer Sam England edged closer to equalling her highest tally of winners in a season with Fenland Tiger's victory in the 2m7½f handicap hurdle.

The success took England to 16 for the campaign, just three behind her best ever figure that she achieved last term.

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