Portarlington gets off the mark for Donoghue and Williamson

Portarlington (11s to 7/1) gained a first career success at Fairyhouse today, as the Ian Donoghue-trained gelding landed the John Thomas McNamara Series (Q.R.) Handicap Hurdle, under up-and-coming rider Josh Williamson.

The son of Kodi Bear had failed in 20 previous outings but today benefitted from a ground-saving ride as he showed nice staying ability to grind-out a half-length win over Down Around

Donoghue, in his second full season as a trainer, reported “that’s just his second run for me and Keith (Donoghue, brother) rode him the last day and loved him.

“He said he gallops and stays but didn’t come down the hill that day in Limerick on quick ground. He was good today and Josh gave him a great ride.

“He might go again at Navan on Sunday: the two-mile race might be a bit short for him but it’s a big stiff track.”

Quotes from Alan Magee