Tessanoora win a family affair

Tessa Henderson’s journey from university in Leeds to Huntingdon was made worthwhile with Tessanoora giving her a first victory as an owner by clinching the opening contest.

The daughter of winning trainer Nicky Henderson was on hand to witness the five-year-old stylishly taking the extended two-mile Braybrook Racing First For Customer Service Mares’ Only Maiden Hurdle.

Tessanoora, ridden by Mick Fitzgerald, was always in touch, and led soon after the third-last flight before staying on strongly to score by seven lengths from Twist The Facts.

The 15-8 favourite, wearing the famous colours of Tessa Henderson’s late grandfather John Thorne – who owned Spartan Missile – deserved this breakthrough success, having finished in the first four on all of her previous four starts.

Ms Henderson, who is studying education, said: “The journey certainly was worthwhile. This is my first win, so it’s very exciting.

“She’s wearing my grandfather’s colours and it’s nice to see them back winning on the racecourse. I wanted to keep the colours going and I’m glad she’s won in them.”