Flame burns bright for McConnell

The John McConnell-trained Andys Flame prevailed after a good duel in the handicap hurdle at Downpatrick this afternoon. Sight Nor Seen went to the front two from home in the race, run over an extended two-miles-two, but was strongly pressed away from the last flight.

Andys Flame squeezed between horses to launch his challenge for Simon Torrens and just found a bit more close home to record a half length success.

The 6/1 shot was making his third start in handicap company over timber. He won a point-to-point on his debut last May.

McConnell said: "I love this place. Both Downpatrick and Down Royal are so well supported, it is great to come racing to both tracks.

"He ran a lovely race in a better race the last day. Better ground probably suited him and he is one for the future. He is still learning, he is a big baby and took a long time to mature even though he had won his point-to-point.

"Hopefully there is more good days in him. We'll keep him on the go for a little while. He enjoyed the ground and relished the hill. He's a nice horse for the future."

(Quotes by Michael Graham)