A massive 300-1 underdog has etched its name into the history books after a stunning victory at Kelso, tying the record for the longest-priced winner in UK horse racing history.
Making her British debut in a two-mile novice hurdle, Crokes Cross delivered a remarkable performance under the guidance of jockey Jamie Hamilton. The mare, who previously had two bumper outings in Ireland, surged late to cross the finish line a length and a quarter ahead of her stablemate, the 5-2 shot Changemyluck, in the 10-horse field.
The spectacular triumph provided trainer Stuart Coltherd with a much-needed trip to the winner's enclosure, snapping a lengthy dry spell for his yard. However, the unexpected victory came with a slight sting for the trainer, who missed out on a potentially life-changing payout.
"I never had a penny on. I wish I had!" Coltherd admitted following the race. "I knew they were both fit and I fancied them both to run well. I thought Changemyluck would be there or thereabouts, but Crokes Cross has done it well."
Prior to December, the UK record for the longest odds stood at 250-1—a milestone set by Equinoctial in 1990, coincidentally also at the Kelso racecourse. That benchmark was shattered late last year when Nigel Hawke's Blowers triumphed at an astonishing 300-1 at Exeter. Now, Crokes Cross proudly shares that historic benchmark.
Coltherd reflected on his stable's recent string of near-misses, noting that several placed horses simply hadn't managed to get their noses in front, potentially due to tough handicap placements. Yet, seeing Crokes Cross secure the monumental upset was a welcome relief, even if he didn't capitalize at the betting window.
"If I knew it was going to change today, I might have had a couple of pounds on! It's good for everybody to get another winner," he added. "When they were going down and I saw she was 300-1, I did think that was a huge price as she works well at home – it's too late now."