Cumani upholds family honour with York win

Francesca Cumani followed in her mother’s footsteps by winning the Queen Mother’s Cup on the 35th Timeform Charity Day at York.

Sara Cumani won the race 12 months ago on Mephisto and her daughter followed up in today’s renewal on Idealistic.

Miss Cumani, riding for her father Luca, was always handy on the 5-1 joint-favourite before sending the filly to the front over a furlong out.

Idealistic had to be kept up to her work to hold on by three-quarters of a length from Countrywide Luck.

With the victory, Miss Cumani won her weight in champagne.

“That was very nerve-racking for all the reasons, safety, hoping she doesn’t make a fool of herself, hoping she does it right and keep the trainer happy but she carried out the orders to perfection,” Mrs Cumani said.

“This is her third ride in this race so it’s third time lucky for her. She’s had three winners now, one at Deauville and on this horse at Bath the other day.”fl