Cooper honoured to get Gigginstown call

Rising star Bryan Cooper described it as a “great honour” to be formally appointed as retained rider for leading owners Gigginstown House Stud.

The 21-year-old has long been talked of as a potential champion jockey and enjoyed a breakthrough season last term, highlighted by a magnificent Cheltenham Festival treble featuring Triumph Hurdle glory aboard Our Conor.

Gigginstown’s admiration was clear as he rode the Mouse Morris-trained First Lieutenant on a number of occasions, including a keynote victory in the Betfred Bowl at Aintree’s Grand National meeting.