Roy Tector with Millieann after she won © Photo Healy Racing
Clonroche, Co Wexford trainer Roy Tector recorded his first ever winner as his Millieann sprang a 20/1 surprise under Adrian Heskin to take what was an eventful Mares Maiden Hurdle over two miles.
The 4yo daughter of Milan had three runs to her name before today finishing well beaten in three bumpers all of which were run on testing conditions.
Having her first start over hurdles and her first start on good ground (officially good, good to yielding in places), the bay filly raced prominently throughout.
She disputed the lead at the halfway stage before hitting the front before the fourth last. She kept on well from the second last and went on to score by an easy seven and a half lengths. Via Del Corso finished second at 7/1 under Mick Darcy for Paul Flynn while the 11/8 favourite Anduknowhat could only manage a disappointing third a further three and three parts of a length back under Francis McCurtin for John Joe Walsh.
The second favourite Macnas at 6/1 fell at the second last under Paddy Mangan for trainer Sean Aherne when still in with a chance.
Winning trainer Roy Tector said afterwards: "I have my licence twelve months now and have had three point-to-point winners. I only have two horses at the minute.
"Bobcatbilly (now with Ian Williams in the UK) was my best horse. He won a point-to-point at Killeagh last year and he is a half-brother to Monksland.
"I always knew she had it in her and she just hadn't got her ground yet. The ground was like a gluepot at Gowran last time out. I knew today that she would be knocking on the door." (DM & TW)
