Cathal Byrnes off the mark as licence holder Run For Mary gained a narrow win in a thriller for the finale at Limerick to give Cathal Byrnes his first winner as a trainer. After brief spells with William O’Doherty and Robbie Burns taking over the licence from the suspended Charles Byrnes, his son Cathal had his first runners on Wednesday. He didn't have to wait long to get a winner in his name as Run For Mary claimed the Shanagolden Handicap tonight. Colin Keane produced the 7/4 favourite to challenge inside the final furlong and she edged the verdict by a neck in a driving finish. No Thanks, who had to wait for his gap, finished runner-up with Anyonecanhaveitall just a head further back in third. Charles Byrnes was on hand afterwards and said:- "Cathal was in Down Royal and was a small bit unlucky to get beaten in a three-way photo (with One For Joe) but this is a great start for him. "She doesn't really like jumping and the amateur handicap at Galway will probably be the target - you'll have to talk to the boss but she might go somewhere before then. "There are a good few horses ready to run at the moment and Cathal is the man now. “Cathal is 26 and is training them now but there is nothing definite (regarding who holds the licence after September). Philip is also a great help as well and is doing well." He added:- “You wouldn't be missing a whole lot coming here today but I can work away in the yard as I'm not a disqualified person at all, I just can't train the horses." (Quotes by Tom Weekes)
