Siobhan Rutledge celebrates her first victory© Photo Healy Racing
Jockey Siobhan Rutlege landed her first winner, by the narrowest margin, as Magi Gal nailed Lady Rosebud on the line in division two of the apprentice handicap at Navan.
Magi Gal had plenty to do in pursuit of Lady Rosebud in the final 100 yards of this 10 furlong race but she kept gaining all the way to the line and just got there by a nose.
The winner was returned at 25/1 with the runner-up a 13/2 chance. Castle Guest was six and a half lengths further back in third at 14/1.
The gambled-on Quite Subunctious gave his backers an each-way dividend in fourth at 7/1, a short head behind Castle Guest.
Trainer John McConnell said: "Some celebrations there! I'm just delighted for everyone connected, the people involved in her are brilliant loyal supporters.
“She's been a bit unlucky, through trainer error, horses falling in front of her and saddles going forward. She just hasn't had any luck.
“I knew the trip was right today but was worried about the ground, but she obviously handles it well.
“She's a very tough little filly, a cheap buy, so I'm delighted.
“Siobhan is my right-hand woman in the yard, she's brilliant and her riding is getting better every day. She definitely has a career ahead of her.
“To get up and pip Gavin Ryan, one of the best apprentices in the country, you couldn't ask for more than that and I'm delighted for her.
“She kept her going, kept her balanced and it's a fairytale to win on the nod.”
Additional reporting by Gary Carson
