JAMES BANKS WINS CHELTENHAM’S OPENER

12-11-2010

Well done to James Banks on a great win in the opening race of Cheltenham’s Open Meeting, the Irish Times Amateur Chase.

His guv’nor Alan King was full of praise for his amateur jockey after he bided his time on RUSTARIX,  taking a narrow lead two out and staying on well under pressure on the run-in to win by a length.

Trainer Alan King said “I hoped he would run well.  He’s a horse that usually comes on for a run so I am very pleased.  They never missed a beat and James gave him a corking ride.  Win, draw or lose he could not have ridden him better.  I am very pleased with him.  He’s a big asset to the yard.  He works hard and he’s got ability.”

Congratulations to winning connections!  James has been based at Barbury Castle for three years and recently represented Great Britain for FEGENTRI in a race in Bremmen.