The name I Sabol, as the rider for number one, Hollow Ranger in the Bobbyjo Bistro Handicap Hurdle, aroused interest among racing enthusiasts when it appeared on the declarations sheet yesterday, and trainer Philip Rothwell briefed the press on his story after saddling Barneys Honour to take the opener.

He said: "Ivan is with me two years. He is from Croatia and now has his green cert. He was Champion Apprentice in his home country and also rode winners in Italy. He is having his first ride over hurdles here and as he is very light he will also get a flat licence. You'll see a bit of him over hurdles off light weights."