Susie Miller and Adam Ryan © Photo Healy Racing
The Sam Curling-trained Susie Miller got a lovely run up the inner to land the spoils in the Randox Handicap Hurdle at Downpartrick. Ciankyle and Hockworthy Flyer fought it out for most of the two-mile-five trip in the amateur rider event but the pair were collared by Susie Miller up the hill.
Adam Ryan got a good tune from the Westerner filly on the run-in as she swooped to grab the lead in the closing stages. Beechroad Winnie ran on well close home but could only get within a length-and-a-quarter of the winner at the line.
The 6/1 winner had stayed on well to finish third to Bal Kauto on her previous start at Limerick.
Ryan said: "She has done it well in the end, she stayed on hardy up the hill.
"I got caught for a little bit of toe going down the hill, but she was there at the line.
"I was talking to Sam and everyone, and they were all quite keen on her today.
"I'd say she could even step up (in trip) again and she should improve again.
"She is very nimble over her jumps and she enjoys racing. I'm delighted to get the ride today.
"It's my first winner for Sam. I'm with Andy (Slattery) every day and that's eight winners (on the track). I've had six point-to-point winners.
"I'm getting plenty of support from good owners and good trainers."
(Quotes by Michael Graham)
