Connor Beasley continues fearsome form in the Great St Wilfrid Handicap at Ripon
- Planet Sport writer
- 13 August 2022
Connor Beasley claimed his third victory in the William Hill Great St Wilfrid Handicap at Ripon after partnering up with old friend Tracy Waggott on Intrinsic Bond.
If a jockey is to earn a reputation as a specialist in a particular race, it may as well be one worth £100,000.
Beasley's record from just eight rides at the renewal is nothing short of remarkable. Aside from his long list of victories, the jockey also finished second three times, as well as fourth - on Intrinsic Bond 12 months ago.
His first success came on Nameitwhatyoulike in 2016 for Bryan Smart, he was second on Dakota Gold in 2018 before going one better on the same horse for his boss Michael Dods a year later. He has also been second twice on Dods' Spinatrix when still an apprentice.
The secret to his success appears to be keeping things very simple. Just like his previous two winners, Beasley was handy from the off and this year he was able to hold off Good Earth by a length with course specialist Mark's Choice third from 10lb out of the handicap.
"Obviously I love this race, that's the third time I've won it which is great, I've just been lucky to get on the right ones on the right day," said Beasley.
"I was fourth on this lad last year, so we knew he went on the track and he won last time out, so we knew he was coming back to form.
"To be fair I was drawn on the wrong side (six) but I made the decision to go where the pace was. I knew if I went to the far side the race would get away from me.
"He jumped and travelled strong, I was able to take a pull at halfway until we got to the two-pole. Once I asked him, he really stretched out.
"Tracy has done a great job with him, she deserves this, she does a great job with the horses she gets. I'm glad to ride her a decent winner.
"I've known her all my life, she used to work with my mum at Norman Mason's."
