Race 5 - Canisbay Bloodstock Handicap - Sunday 30th July

De Souza Rides First Ascot Winner On Rayhani

Brazillian jockey Jose De Souza rode his first winner at Ascot when partnering Rayhani to success in the mile and a half Canisbay Bloodstock Handicap. The jockey is the elder brother of fellow jockey Nelson De Souza and was recording his British second victory from 30 rides this year.  He is a successful jockey in Brazil and came to Britain last year. Jose De Souza is based with trainer Paul Cole.

The winner, owned by Sheikh Ahmed Al Maktoum, carried top weight of 9st 7lb and came from off the pace to deny Ollie George by a head. Patrick MacEwan, assistant trainer to Marcus Tregoning, was quick to praise De Souza: That was a brilliant ride. Jose has ridden a very patient race and just sat there before he came wide to deliver a challenge. He timed it perfectly. This horse is not the easiest ride as he is not great in the stalls and just takes a while to get going. Jose just let the horse find his stride which is what he needs.

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