Seven rides from heaven for Paul Hanagan

PAUL Hanagan can go a long way towards wrapping up the jockey's championship this afternoon when he takes on seven rides at Musselburgh.

Hanagan, who currently has the edge in the title race over rival Richard Hughes, starts his hectic schedule in the opening 5f TurfTV Handicap on the consistent Grissom for the in-form Tim Easterby stable. And he closes the card on Hong Kong Island for Haddington trainer George Foster in the long distance handicap.

In Musselburgh's last flat meeting of the season, Hanagan also partners Palomar, the likely favourite in the 17,000 Weatherbys Bloodstock Insurance Willie Park Trophy, for Malton trainer Brian Ellison. Formerly a useful handicapper over the jumps for Nicky Richards, Palomar has made further improvement for his new connections and his staying on fifth in the Cesarewitch at Newmarket two Saturdays ago earns him the vote over the progressive Graceful Descent, trained by Jim Goldie, whose Gordonsville won the corresponding race last year.

In the 10,000 EBF Maiden Stakes (3.15) Hanagan teams up with Blue Destination for Newmarket trainer Charlie McBride, making a rare trip north to Musselburgh. Blue Destination caught the eye with a promising debut sixth behind Biondetti at Newmarket in early August and the McBride team are among the winners just now.

The Northern-based champion elect also travels to the East Lothian course for rides on Ensnare, Crimson Knot and Lesley's Choice.

Meanwhile, Mark Bradburne rode his first winner since returning from serious injury when steering home Pairc Na Gcapall in the Crinkle Birr Handicap Chase at Taunton yesterday.

The jockey only returned to action earlier this month after seriously damaging his back in a fall at Kelso in April. He showed he had lost none of his desire to win with a forceful performance on Neil King-trained gelding Pairc Na Gcapall (7-2).

"I'm delighted to be riding again," said Bradburne. "I feel fine riding. It's running and any sort of exercise that hurts."