HORSE RACING: WHILE the last hurdle and fence were omitted from all races for wind, a large crowd gathered at Hexham for the seven race card sponsored by The Great Run Company.

The action got under way with a first win in 14 months for Irish raider Celtic Monarch (9/4) trained by Mark McNiff and ridden by Derek Fox.

It was followed by success for trainer Nicky Richards’ only entry on the card, Gold Futures (9/4) living up to its name.

In the following race, Egmont (9/1) trained by George Moore at Middleham ridden by Brian Hughes survived an early scare to score victory.

One of the most impressive performances of the meeting was recorded by Chicago Outfit (11/4) trained by George Bewley at Hawick ridden by son Jonathon Bewley.

Three horses contested the finish of the Great North City Games Handicap Hurdle which was won by Gurkha Brave (7/2 fav.) trained by Karen McLintock at Newcastle.

Repeating his success last time at Hexham, Pekanheim (3/1 joint fav.) trained by Martin Todhunter at Penrith ridden by Mr. Z. Baker won by a margin of 16 lengths

In-form trainer Karen McLintock won the bumper race, last on the card, with 10/11 fav. Emperor Sakhee ridden by James Reveley.

Two fixtures remain before the summer recess.

Tomorrow, a seven race card for Marie Curie charity gets under way at 1.50pm and will be followed by the popular Totepool Ladies‘ Day on Sunday, June 21.

For tomorrow‘s meeting, the courtesy buses will pick up at Hexham railway station and the bus station at 12.40pm.