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Oxford Rock off the mark under Wayne Hassett

Oxford Rock and Wayne Hassett Oxford Rock and Wayne Hassett
© Photo Healy Racing

Wayne Hassett registered another important winner in his quest for the apprentices title when partnering Oxford Rock to success in the opening www.navanracecourse.ie Maiden at the County Meath track.

Hassett, who is engaged in a thrilling duel with Adam Caffrey for the aforementioned championship, was always to the fore on the Joseph O'Brien trained 4/9f.

Having seen off the attentions of Zambales over a furlong out, Oxford Rock was then challenged by Island Girl inside the final furlong.

The Michael O'Flynn owned filly accounted for that latter named rival before holding late finisher Turners Cross by half-a-length.

Wayne Hassett said: "It was fairly straightforward.

"I just kept the hold of her head the whole way and he (Joseph O'Brien) said within the last furlong to send her along.

"Not really (claustrophobic), I was just happy with the way she did it there today, she kept going to be fair.

"I'm happy with the five (furlongs) but she seemed today she could get six - she just kept galloping."

Commenting on winning the 'Petingo' on Fighter at Leopardstown last weekend, he said: "It is brilliant to be riding for Joseph let alone his father.

"That was my second ride for him (Aidan O'Brien) - I got done by a short head in Limerick on one for him.

"I was delighted to get that winner for him and I'm very grateful."

Additional reporting by Michael Graham.

1st
4/9Fav
Tote €1.45 €1.10
2nd
0.5L
10/1
€2.10
3rd
2L
15/2
€1.80
4th
2.75L
12/1
About John O'Riordan
John has worked for the Press Association since 2022. He also writes a weekly column for The Irish Field and is a regular contributor to the Irish Racing Yearbook. He has previously written for the Racing Post, Irish Examiner and Irish Daily Mirror. He has been involved in racing for over three decades; having experience as a syndicate member, sole owner and breeder.