Explorers Way Maintains Brian Ellison’s Brilliant Start to 2024 with Impressive Flying Performance

Joint-owned by the trainer’s racing club, the five-year-old denied Femme Patronne by half a length. Explorers Way’s third Newcastle victory was Ellison’s seventh winner in the last fortnight and all but one of the trainer’s last eight runners have finished first or second.

Ellison said: “He’s a quirky bugger but he’s loved by everyone at home and I think that helps him. Ben [Robinson, jockey] knows him and gave him a great ride and while it wasn’t the best race, it’s great he’s won three times. “That’s actually the fourth winner for the racing club already this year and an eighth for the yard too. It’s great when it happens and we’re flying along.”

Six of Ellison’s winners in 2024 have come over jumps, and the Malton-based trainer hopes the meetings later this week can beat the freezing temperatures as he bids to continue his fine form. He added: “It’s lovely that the jumpers are going particularly well and I hope Market Rasen goes ahead on Friday as we’ve three there, including Baron De Midleton.

Chris Cook, the reigning Racing Writer of the Year, provides his take on the day’s biggest stories and tips for the upcoming racing every morning from Monday to Friday.

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