Shropshire businessman’s horse in Ascot joy

Thursday 16th June 2011, 4:24PM BST.

The Earl and Countess of Wessex presenting the Ascot Stakes Trophy to winning owner Paul Sandy and his wife Deborah

It was beginner’s luck for Bridgnorth businessman Paul Sandy, who was left stunned after his horse Veiled romped to victory at Royal Ascot and became the first from the county to win at the prestigious meeting.

The 61-year-old admitted he had never even been to Ascot before, let alone won there.

But his five-year-old mare emerged victorious in the Ascot Stakes, netting £50,000 and a place in the history books.

Mr Sandy said: “I’m amazed, ecstatic. Things like this just don’t happen to people like me, a billionaire maybe, not a Shropshire man.

“Veiled was amazing, bursting out ahead of the pack to win by three lengths. I was jumping around, so happy.

“The presentation was made by the Earl and Duchess of Wessex who were really nice people.

“It was a brilliant day and I must thank the trainer Nicky Henderson, the jockey Eddie Ahearn, my wife Deborah and everyone who has helped me along the way.”

Trainer Nicky Henderson, who trains Veiled at Lambourn, decided to enter her in Tuesday’s race after she stormed to a six-length success at Newmarket, a month after winning Cheltenham’s Victor Chandler Hurdle.

Mr Sandy was born in Bridgnorth and was educated at the town’s Grammar School. He is managing director of local firm Pump and Plant Services.

l Soggy – See Page 17

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