Cloudy Lane makes name for rookie trainer

Cloudy Lane gave first-season trainer Donald McCain Jr his first Festival winner with his first runner when taking the Fulke Walwyn Kim Muir Challenge Cup Handicap Chase for amateur riders.

The well-backed 15-2 favourite took closer order on the second circuit before leading at the third-last in the hands of Richard Burton.

The seven-year-old, owned by Trevor Hemmings, came home three quarters of a length ahead of Parsons Legacy, who finished strongly to claim second spot.

Cheeky Lady was two lengths back in third, with Ponmeoath fourth.

McCain Jr said: ``It's unbelievable. It really is.

“This little horse is the first one owner Trevor Hemmings sent me and he’s done everything we’ve asked.

“I shouldn’t have run him at Haydock on that ground last time, but I’m absolutely thrilled to bits.

“Richard did everything right. He’s a great horseman and I couldn’t quite believe it when the two of them were coming clear down the hill.

“He’s still a novice and he’s probably just a little bit too careful, but he’s a very talented little horse.

“I really fancied him, but I thought I was being a bit naughty fancying him as I was coming to Cheltenham with my first runner.

Donald’s father Ginger, trainer of the legendary Red Rum, added: “It’s absolutely tremendous. It really is. He might just make a trainer one day!”