Rutledge has claim reduced on McConnell trained winner

Trainer John McConnell is gearing up for a Grade 1 runner at the Dublin Racing Festival on Sunday and tonight bagged a winner at Dundalk as his Bellick landed division one of the Party Nights At Dundalk Stadium Handicap under jockey Siobhan Rutledge.

McConnell goes in search of his first top-level win at Leopardstown on Sunday where he runs 10/1 chance Never Do Nothing in the Tattersalls Ireland Spring Juvenile Hurdle and following today's win with Bellick stated “I'm delighted, particularly for Siobhan and the horse.

“That's Siobhan's 10lb gone now, she's a really good rider and is improving all the time. She's good value for 7lb now.

“The horse is a little trooper, he's very consistent.

“She put the stick down close home and we work hard on it together, getting her rhythm and routine right. It's really coming together for her now and I think she has a future.

“She can do bottom weight, she has a brain as well and gives good feedback.

“Bellick is a little dinger and is very genuine. He doesn't win by too far but that suits me. He was a cheap yearling and is one of the favourites in the yard so it's great to get another win for him.”

Quotes from Gary Carson