Jockey James McDonald tipped for stardom after winning Glorious Goodwood’s Qatar Lennox Stakes on Dutch Connection
Trainer Charlie Hills has tipped jockey James McDonald for a golden future after he rode 9/4 favourite Dutch Connection to victory in the Qatar Lennox Stakes on day one of Glorious Goodwood.
The Australia-based New Zealander, 22, ensured four-year-old Dutch Connection was well placed before instigating a successful late challenge to beat second-favourite Home of the Brave and 13/2 shot Gifted Master as Godolphin secured a one-two.
“He’s a world-class jockey and still very young. I think we’ll see more of him,” said Hills. “He seems very laid back and he has a good relationship with horses.”
McDonald said: “I can’t believe I’ve won a big race for Charlie Hills. He’s an absolute brother of mine and he’s had so much faith in me and I can’t thank him enough.”
McDonald followed his success on Dutch Connection in the feature race with a second-placed finish in the Summer Stakes aboard 8/1 chance Qewy. Mick Channon-trained Elidor, a 16/1 shot, prevailed, while joint-favourite Joe Fanning came home in third.
Earlier in the day, jockey Adam Kirby was victorious on 8/1 joint-favourite Fire Fighting in the opening race, while Ryan Moore triumphed in the Vintage Stakes on board 6/4 favourite War Decree.