Johnny Cullen© Photo Healy Racing
Johnny Cullen recorded his first success as a trainer at Cartmel yesterday evening as he partnered Gray Hession to victory in the 2m 6f Sticky Toffee Pudding Novices' Hurdle.
Cullen who trains in Thurles, didn't have long to wait for his maiden success as the winner was just his fifth runner.
The 5yo son of Vinnie Roe came to challenge the 6/4 favourite An Capall Mor at the last before staying on best on the run-in to score by three and three parts of a length.
On just his second start for Cullen, Gray Hession opened as favourite in the morning at 7/4 but drifted out to 9/4 second choice of punters at the off.
Later on the card Cullen saddled Man Of God in the second last race which was a maiden hurdle over 2m 1f.
The 4yo son of Saddler’s Wells was sent off a 7/2 chance but weakened after the second last and finished a well beaten fourth after attempting to make all.
