A new chapter in Paddy Brennan’s life could barely have opened in a better way as the frontrunning Nacarat gave the rider a Grade One victory in the Bowl at Aintree.
Just a week ago, the Irishman announced he was leaving his position as stable jockey to Nigel Twiston-Davies, insisting there was no acrimony as he made way for the trainer’s two flourishing sons Sam and Willie.
He expects to still be part of Twiston-Davies’ set-up but succour has been provided by Tom George, trainer of Nacarat as well as Zanir, winner of a valuable handicap hurdle at Auteuil in Paris on Wednesday.
Success in Liverpool has been overdue for Nacarat, who thrives on a quick, flat track, and it came at the expense of this year’s Gold Cup runner-up Denman (5-4 favourite), a pale imitation of his usual self as he laboured home fifth of the six starters.
“I’ve still got the backing of Nigel, who has been a great supporter to me, and it just happens Nigel has two wonderful lads riding for him,” Brennan said.
“But I’m going to go out there and ride winners.
“It’s a wonderful new challenge for me but I’m willing to give it a go. I’ve cleared the air and come out as a freelance jockey and I already feel like I’m riding better. This was the right decision for me.”
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