Parnham Breaks Frustrating Drought
21 April, 2018
Thoroughbred
It has been a bit of a wait for multiple Group 1 winning jockey Steven Parnham between wins, but the ever consistent Discoville ended the wait at Ascot today.
Parnham’s last winner came on January 31, and his relief was evident after the win on Discoville, trained by his father Neville.
Parnham said the win was even more special, given Discoville was bred by his Nan.
“Nanna means a lot to us,” he said.
“She bred it, so she will be excited to win.”
Discoville had been competitive without winning all campaign, finishing in the top four in five of his six starts for the campaign.
The six-year-old was able to land in the perfect spot for Parnham, just behind the speed set by Albany mare Prix D’Excellence.
Parnham had to push the gelding along coming to the home corner, and looked like he would have his work cut out to run down the leader.
However, Parnham urged his mount to the line, and he was able to come away to record a one-and-a-quarter length win.
Parnham Snr said he was pleased for his eldest son to end what had been a frustrating run of outs.
“He’s been giving them every chance,” he said.
“It just hasn’t quite been clicking for him.
“There’s ups and downs in racing, but he’s got a winner today, so he’s back on track.”
Discoville’s win added to what had already been a successful day for the Parnham family, after two-year-old Super Stardom made it two wins on the trot in the TABtouch Plate (1000m).
Chris Parnham had the ride on the War Chant filly this afternoon, and wasted no time sending the filly to the front, and she went on to record a comfortable win.
The youngest of the Parnham jockeys then brought up a winning double when Snow Lord took out the Real Iced Tea Co Handicap (1000m).
Adding to the successful day for the family was the improved performance of Malibu Style in the Listed Bel Esprit Stakes (1100m) at Caulfield.
The gelding finished off strongly to run third behind Sprightly Lass.
Tim Walker