Lucinda Russell reaches 1,000 winners with Kelso success

Scotland’s most successful jumps trainer Lucinda Russell celebrated the 1,000th winner of her career as Starlyte prevailed at Kelso on Saturday.

The Kinross-based 58-year-old has twice landed the top prize at the Grand National, with One For Arthur (2017) and Corach Rambler (2023).

She enjoyed Scottish Grand National success with Mighty Thunder in 2021, while Corach Rambler also provided two memorable triumphs at the Cheltenham Festival.

“Reaching the landmark has been a real team effort,” said Russell.

“I would especially like to thank all the owners who have supported me since I took out a professional licence for the 1995-96 season, all the jockeys who have ridden for me and all the staff who have worked for me.

“Without their hard work and dedication, none of this would have been possible.

“What has been central in every one of the 1,000 wins, no matter where they have been or how big the race was, is the enjoyment we have shared with our owners.

“I have been touched by how many have got in contact in the last few days as this moment approached.”

Of the 1,000 victories, 960 have been over the fences.

Starlyte gave Russell a 139th win at Kelso, second behind her 152 successes at Ayr.