Stolberg wins on his debut under Burke

The Andrew McNamara owned and trained newcomer Stolberg show good battling qualities to win the last at Listowel this afternoon, the Bank Of Ireland bumper.

The 4yo son of Vinnie Roe is a half-brother to Dolly Hall who won three race (two on the track and one point-to-point). She was trained for those wins by Liam Burke, father of winning jockey Jonathon.

Sent off at 16/1 he was waited with in rear before making headway into fifth from before the straight.

The John Hanlon trained newcomer Giantofaman (8/1) travelled well a furlong out under Nina Carberry and looked the likely winner but he couldn’t fend off Stolberg who had the aid of the rail and he was driven out by Burke to win by a length and a quarter.

Giantofaman lost little in defeat in second while another newcomer Colley Row finished a further three and a half lengths back in third at 16/1 for Prunella Dobbs and Pa King.

Winning rider Jonathon Burke said afterwards: "That is my first ride here and my third winner. I’ve had fifteen rides in total.

"I got a half-day off school today and I told my teachers not to back him so they won’t be happy!"

Winning trainer Andrew McNamara added: "I fancied him during the week but I didn't think he would handle the ground. He is a good horse and I would be happy to sell him if he were to stay in training with me.

"He is a half-sister to Dolly Hall who won on that ground.

"Jonathon gave him a brilliant ride. He done the right things and he has bright future."

(On-course reporting by Alan Magee)