By Dan Walsh
Champion point-to-point rider Barry O’Neill has stretched his lead at the top of the 2022-23 championship with a double at Cragmore, Co. Limerick today. O’Neill is now on the 26-winner mark and six ahead of Rob James.
O’Neill was aboard Workahead for handler Colin Bowe in the 18-runner maiden race for five-year- olds who was impressive with eight lengths to spare for owner Sean Kinsella, Knockhouse Stud, Kilmacow, Co. Kilkenny.
David Christie supplied O’Neill with his second winner of the day in the Open Race where Winged Leader held the advantage by one and a half lengths at the finish line.
Saturday’s point-to-point action was run under the auspices of East Down at Tyrella and the wonderfully named Speranza Wilde delivered a late challenge to gain a two and a half lengths victory in the maiden race for five-year-old mares.
Handler and breeder Susan O’Gorman supplied the impressive winner for her father, Donal O’Gorman, Kellystown, Adamstown, and Speranza Wilde, who was having her first outing will be heading for the sales ring. It was a 30th career win for Tomhaggard rider Jamie Scallan.
Racing returns to Co. Wexford next Sunday, February 5th with the first four-year-old race of 2023 heading the card and 1pm start. It all happens at Ballinaboola, New Ross, with the Wexford Hunt inviting all to a sporting afternoon.
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