Oxford Rock off the mark under Wayne Hassett

Wayne Hassett registered another important winner in his quest for the apprentices title when partnering Oxford Rock to success in the opening www.navanracecourse.ie Maiden at the County Meath track.

Hassett, who is engaged in a thrilling duel with Adam Caffrey for the aforementioned championship, was always to the fore on the Joseph O'Brien trained 4/9f.

Having seen off the attentions of Zambales over a furlong out, Oxford Rock was then challenged by Island Girl inside the final furlong.

The Michael O'Flynn owned filly accounted for that latter named rival before holding late finisher Turners Cross by half-a-length.

Wayne Hassett said: "It was fairly straightforward.

"I just kept the hold of her head the whole way and he (Joseph O'Brien) said within the last furlong to send her along.

"Not really (claustrophobic), I was just happy with the way she did it there today, she kept going to be fair.

"I'm happy with the five (furlongs) but she seemed today she could get six - she just kept galloping."

Commenting on winning the 'Petingo' on Fighter at Leopardstown last weekend, he said: "It is brilliant to be riding for Joseph let alone his father.

"That was my second ride for him (Aidan O'Brien) - I got done by a short head in Limerick on one for him.

"I was delighted to get that winner for him and I'm very grateful."

Additional reporting by Michael Graham.