Jockey John Allen recorded a double at Tramore today where he combined with trainers Margaret Flynn and TJ Nagle for 168/1 brace.
Stradbally trainer Margaret Flynn provided Co Cork born rider with his first win, on Maryannthedancer in the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Mares Maiden Hurdle. The daughter of Un Desperado raced prominently before leading after two out, eventually recording an easy 11 length success.
Flynn later commented 'she had been in very good form at home and the better ground definitely helped. She may now go for the final of the series at Fairyhouse over Easter.'
Allen's second winner was on board Glendante who belied odds of 25/1 (55/1 on the Tote) to win the Martinstown Opportunity Handicap Chase.
Having her first run for TJ Nagle, the winner moved through to lead after the second last, although a bad mistake at the last failed to prevent her winning.
Afterwards, Nagle stated 'we have her a few months but that was her first run for us. She had been in season for the last week so I thought she wouldn't win.'
The opening maiden hurdle saw Borris, Co Carlow jockey Anthony Freeman, 17, ride his first winner, on Tom Mullins' Barrow Walk.
The winner tracked the leaders before striking the front at the second last, staying on under a fine drive for a two length success.
Afterwards, Mullins reported 'that's the horse's second win around here while Anthony has been with us for five years. He gave that a very professional ride.'
Feature event on the card, the Waterford & Tramore Directors Chase, went to Ken Whelan on board Homer Scott's John James. Whelan was seen to good effect on the winner, moving past front running Il De Boitron before two out to record an easy seven length success.
First time blinkers helped Stan Ryan's Mason's Arch to win the 2m4f handicap hurdle under Willie Slattery.
Via Del Vento, under his 7lb claiming amateur, looked to have his rivals in trouble at the second last but was headed by the winner after jumping the last, with Slattery keeping the winner going for a two and a half length win.
Stanley later commented 'I thought the ground would be too fast for him but the first time blinkers helped. He'll go for something similar again but won't go chasing because he is too small for fences.'
