Spring takes the last for Wilkinson

Cliff Wilkinson recorded his first winner since July of 2004, as his Everlasting Spring took the bumper at Down Royal, the Dale Farm INH Flat Race, under Robbie McNamara.

The five-year-old son of High Chaparral made his debut at Cork just last Sunday, finishing eighth of eighteen behind Celtic Fashion.

He was sent off at 10/1 this evening and he was waited with towards the rear, before making headway to track the leaders two furlongs out.

He challenged in third a furlong from home, staying on well to hit the front near the line, holding off the challenge of Intheolddays by a neck.

The runner-up was returned at 6/1 for Mags Mullins, while Mill Forge ran a fine race on his debut, finishing another neck back in third under Johnny Burke for John Nicholson at 20/1.

Cliff Wilkinson said afterwards: “We were kind of disappointed with him in Cork as he seems to have lots of pace. It was his first time on a racecourse and the experience did him good.

"He was showing plenty at home before Cork and he got a great ride today.

"I'm based in Fethard, Co Tipperary and have four horses in."

Owner John O'Mahony's representative Liam O'Brien added: “He'll go to Listowel if it comes up good ground. He'll go for a maiden hurdle as he jumps well or a winners' bumper."

Additional reporting by Michael Graham