McGill records first track winner as Ellaat follows up

Ellaat quickened away nicely on the run-in to record back-to-back wins at Thurles for Co. Derry trainer Noel Kelly.

The Heeraat gelding was a game winner at the track a fortnight ago and Oran McGill got the leg up this afternoon to offset most of his 8lb rise for that success.

It was a cool ride from the 7lb amateur as he produced the 9/4 favourite to lead before the last and asked him to go and win his race in the closing stages.

Ellaat was in control on the run-in as he recorded a two-and-three-quarter length victory over Lesssaidthebetter

Kelly said:- “That’s the lad’s first winner on the track. He’s had three point-to-point winners in the last three weeks. He’d a bad injury last year but he’s flying now.

“He works for me every day and is a good rider and a well mannered cub. He’s dedicated to his job and very healthy in what he eats and drinks.

“Hopefully he’ll continue to improve and get a bit of luck.

“I’ll try and get another run into this horse before the ground goes. If the ground goes it would be a waste of time.”

22-year-old McGill is the son of another County Derry-based trainer Gary McGill.

(Quotes by Alan Magee)