Son Of Leading Light Wins Maiden Hurdle On Stable Debut

Game Socks (4g Leading Light - Late Night Deed, by Midnight Legend) made a winning start for the Dr Richard Newland stable in Monday’s maiden hurdle at Plumpton.

Last seen claiming runners-up honours for Paul Power, the chesnut was sent off second favourite under Sam Twiston-Davies and raced in midfield for much of the way. Pushed along to make headway from three out, he produced a strong challenge at the final flight and led on the run-in, staying on to win by a length and a half from the favourite Captain Biggles (Milan).

Twiston-Davies gave an encouraging de-brief, saying, “Game Socks was very tough. He's had experience in Ireland, but was a little bit green and hopefully will learn as he goes on. He responded really well in the closing changes.”

Owned by Chris Stedman and Mark Albon, Game Socks was bred by J and C Jiggens. He hails from the first crop of Grange Stud sire Leading Light, which also includes debut winners Kilbarry Leader, Bravo Buddy and Zoom Zoom Zoe.