John Cullen recorded his first double since joining the paid ranks at the end of the point-to-point season in May when successfully adopting forcing tactics aboard Palouse and Miles Byrne at Roscommon yesterday evening.
Cullen replaced David Casey, whose flight from Heathrow was delayed, on Palouse in the opening Athleague Maiden Hurdle, and the Philip Rothwell-trained gelding made all to upset hot-pot McCracken by two lengths.
'That's the first time John has ridden for me, and he is very good at judging the pace in front,' said Rothwell, who indicated the son of Toulon may be given a break.
Cullen recorded his eighth winner of the season when Miles Byrne defied topweight in the Kiernans Bookmakers Handicap Chase. Pat Sinnott's charge needed a strong drive from the second last to hold on by half a length from Goodnight Mike, and is likely to bid for a repeat win at the Listowel Festival next month. The race was marred when Martys Step was fatally injured after four out.
Shane Kelly heads to England later this week to start a freelance career, and the Leitrim apprentice marked the announcement by taking the Fuerty Handicap on Furnitureville. The Joe Canty-trained gelding overcame a seven month lay-off to beat Liffeydale by half a length. 'I will be riding out for Willie Haggas, Jamie Osbourne and Barney Curley,' said Kelly, who has partnered 78 winners in Ireland. Tadgh O'Shea picked up a one day suspension (August 31) for careless riding aboard Northern Mill.
