Hennessy rides first winner, for boss Bolger

Trainer Jim Bolger has sent another apprentice 'on his way' with a first career winner at Naas today, legging Killian Hennessy up on last Saturday's Ulster Derby victor Fionnuar winner of the concluding Revamp Building And Renovation Supporting Naas Hurling Handicap.

Hennessy, from Youghal, Co Cork and based with Bolger, sent the daughter of Teofilo to the front from the start and the pair quickly went clear of their seven rivals. Turning in, Fionnuar had a commanding advantage and while she tired close home, Hennessy kept her going for a length and a half win over Point Piper

Fionnuar jinked and unseated Hennessy shortly after passing the winning line but the apprentice was subsequently reunited with the filly in the winner's enclosure.

Bolger's delight was easily spotted and he later stated “Killian got the fractions right. He has been with me about two years and will ride plenty of winners. He's a very good worker and is on his way now so hopefully everything will go well.”

He added “she (Fionnuar) is definitely going the right way and loves her racing. She has a fair degree of ability and has slipped up the handicapper's inside a few times but hopefully can do it again!”

By Thomas Weekes, quotes from Gary Carson