Pana To Milan and Liam McKenna © Photo Healy Racing
Pana To Milan bagged back-to-back wins at Thurles with a cosy success in the Killinan Handicap Hurdle.
The Mick Winters-trained mare had scored over fences at the venue last month and was sent to post a 4/1 shot dropping back six furlongs over the smaller obstacles.
Liam McKenna was always prominent on the daughter of Sageburg and sent her on after the second last.
She was clear when untidy at the final flight but had plenty up her sleeves as she eased down close home to beat Jay Pee M by four lengths.
"She was always running some kind of races but was never finishing out and needs to get things her own way,” said Winters.
“We never miss a day with her at home but I suppose she has struck real fitness and strength. We moved yards recently and have our own well water now which might be the small thing that has made the big thing.
"She has two strides instead of one when the ground isn't right for her and needs it perfect and to go her own way. I'm delighted for Liam McKenna.
"The first time I bumped into the (Leave Him Alone) syndicate was when I won on a horse called Homer for Gerry Cully in a Guide Dogs Charity Race at Mallow a long time ago now. It was about 40 or 50 years ago and I was like John Wayne when I won!"
(Quotes by Tom Weekes)
