Apprentice makes winning debut for Weld

Apprentice jockey Robbie Downey steered his first winner on his first ride for Dermot Weld at Leopardstown today, winning the Bulmers Original Summer Music Night Handicap on the former Champion Trainer's Flic Flac

Downey's mount was all out in the closing stages but held the fast finishing Ramone by a neck.

Weld was in America in preparation for Flying Jib's Belmont Oaks run and was represented by his son Kris Weld who stated “we'll have to see when Dad comes back whether that's her last hurrah or not as she is in foal to Choisir.

“She's a good honest mare and Robbie gave her a beautiful ride and did exactly as was asked. She has always liked it around here and it's great she has managed to win here.”

The winner carries the colours of Noeleen McCreevy, wife of former Finance Minister Charlie McCreevy.

Quotes from Gary Carson