Fighting Days and Shane Shortall clear the last in style© Photo Healy Racing
Shane Shortall has been showcasing his talent in Britain in recent times but he was back on a home winner when bringing home Fighting Days in front for Francis Flood in the WorkPal Handicap Hurdle at Down Royal.
The successful 10/1 shot chased the leaders on the inner, he led approaching the last, and stayed on well for a three length verdict over the market-leader, Dollar And A Dream
Fran Flood jnr said: "He got a beautiful ride. He (Shortall) really gave him every chance to settle and relax and that has been a bit of a problem with him. The last day here he just ran with the choke out too much and he fell into a hole. He's a grand little horse.
"Here is a galloping track and you get a fair chance to get a good run of the race and you don't have to worry about traffic problems generally. I have to say he nursed and gave him a chance to come down the hill and pick up. I'm thrilled. Young Shane started off with us before he went across to England. I'm delighted he got a winner for us.
"Both owners are from Dunlavin, Co Wicklow beside us."
Darragh Maher took a horrible fall from Cullentry Royal two out on his first racecourse ride. He was taken to the Royal Victoria Hospital in Belfast to be assessed with suspected concussion.
(MG & EM)
