Tinkler And Fallon Turn Back The Clock In Legends Race

Features | 9th September 2019

Trainer Nigel Tinkler and former champion jockey Kieren Fallon will be turning back the clock when they link up in the ever-popular Leger Legends race on the opening day of the William Hill St Leger Festival at Doncaster.

The Classic-winning rider has been drawn to ride Tinkler’s syndicate-owned Kilbaha Lady in the 10th running of the Mondialiste Leger Legends Classified Stakes, renewing an association that dates back around two decades.

The six times champion rode 11 winners for Tinkler, including Bomber Jet in a nursery at the 2011 Ebor Festival at York and now aims to thrust The Dapper Partnership into the headlines.

In fact, Tinkler has had a close association with Fallon’s family, having employed several relatives over the years including his ex-wife Julie (then Bowker) when she was a fledgling jockey.

“It’s wonderful to have Kieren on my mare” says the Malton trainer. “We’ve trained her with this race in mind because my wife Kim is on the Leger Legends committee.

“Kieren looks in great nick and it’s such a boost for the race – and for my owners – to have him taking part this year.”

Victory for Fallon on Kilbaha Lady could pave the way for a memorable double, as his apprentice son Cieren Fallon partners Tinkler’s Roundhay Park in Doncaster’s closing sprint handicap.

“Kieren’ s clearly very proud of his son’s progress and has managed him very well,” adds Tinkler. “It would be wonderful for all his family if he could become champion apprentice.”

Kilbaha Lady – a winner of six races and an encouraging second at Newcastle last time – will carry the red and white silks of The Dapper Partnership, a syndicate of five including Tinkler himself.

“It’s named after Paul Malone, who is a very dapper dresser,” explains the in-form handler. “The owners all work in the construction business in London and are very excited at the prospect of winning this race.”