By Dan Walsh at Wexford races
Enniscorthy trainer Paul Nolan and Duncormick jockey Eoin Staples joined forces for a double success at Wexford races today where the ground for the horses was ‘yielding’ but for the punters it was unpleasant with wind, rain and incredible cold conditions.
Le Moulin Rouge (/1 fav.) started the winning double for Nolan/Staples by three lengths in the maiden hurdle. James Nolan, assistant trainer to his brother Paul, was in Aintree said afterwards; “He is a lovely horse and there was no plan beyond today. We’ll see what’s for him. We might be restricted to going left-handed, as he prefers to go that way.”
The Nolan/Staples double was completed in the following race – a handicap hurdle – when Sean Mc (13/2) scored by two lengths. Afterwards, James Nolan said; “I’m delighted for the lads, Dominic Delaney and his family. They are fantastic owners and loyal people. They’ve had horses with us for years and have been a bit unlucky.
“They are Kilkenny people and I’m thrilled for them. It’s their first winner since 2007. He’ll go for something similar now in three or four weeks’ time.”
Top jockey Jack Kennedy, who rode two winners at Aintree on Thursday and returns there again on Saturday to ride in the Aintree Grand National, made the headlines when his foot dropped out of the irons turning into the straight aboard Dunleer Crystal and he clung on dearly for a number of strides before regaining his composure and finished third. The drama is an international attraction on social media.
But Kennedy left the track with a smile on his face when he partnered the JP McManus owned/ Gordon Elliott trained Agameoftwohalves (5/2) to victory in the novice hurdle.
In other news Cleariestown jockey Conor Stone-Walsh, (19), was successful on Will The Wise (9/1) for the Gavin Cromwell stables in the Topham Chase at Aintree run over the famous National fences. The talented teenager won his first race at the Cheltenham Festival last month on Final Orders and the partnership will be reunited in the Aintree Grand National (off at 4pm, Saturday). Final Orders is well priced at 22/1.
Four other Wexford jockeys will ride in the world’s greatest steeplechase; JJ Slevin, Banbridge (40/1), Sean O’Keeffe is on Lucky Watson (33/1), Jordan Gainford, Three Card Brag (50/1) and veteran Sean Flanagan, Gorgeous Tom (22/1). All have chances and good luck to all five jockeys.
Eddie Scally was honoured for his six years as Manager at Wexford races. Chairman Michael Murphy praised his contributions and improvements, while Managing Director Ursula Sinnott presented him with a gift and wished him well. Mr. Scally expressed gratitude for his time at the track.
WexfordLocal.com 