Ladbrokes Trophy: Emma Lavelle at it again as De Rasher Counter brings home bacon in big Newbury handicap

DE RASHER COUNTER made it a weekend to remember for Emma Lavelle as he stayed on best to win the Ladbrokes Trophy at Newbury.

After celebrating with Paisley Park yesterday, Lavelle was all cheers again as young Ben Jones kicked on early and punched the air as he passed the winning post.

A long-term plan for the 12-1 shot, the pace wasn’t as competitive as most big handicaps and young 5lbs claimer Jones seized the initiative turning in and never flinched.

Quickly making a name for himself, the Welshman even had time for a glance at the screen and a fist pump nearly as impressive as his partners jumping throughout.

The Conditional (20-1) was an admirable second with stayer Elegant Escape again finishing strongly to finish third at 15-2.

Winning trainer Lavelle said: “Its just unbelievable. Im so proud of what Ben has done on him and so proud of the team.

“There were a few sore heads after (Paisley Park winning) yesterday. I cant imagine what it will be like after today.”

Jones said: “This horse is so game. I thought I might have got there a bit too early, but luckily he kept galloping and jumping. He loved it.

“I cant thank Emma, Barry Fenton (assistant) and the team enough, just to trust me to ride this horse in the race let alone do what Ive done. I owe it to them.”