Townend steers first winner for Barry Akito belatedly gained a second career win in the Dawn Hi & Lo Milk Beginners Chase at Killarney today, as his trainer Shay Barry combined successfully for the first time with former Champion Jockey Paul Townend. The son of Network was arriving with his challenge as leader Mick Thonic crashed out at the second last and from the final fence, Akito stayed on gamely for a length and a half win over Our Dougal. Following the race, Barry stated “he was overdue that and obviously came up against a good horse of Peter Fahey’s (Xsquared) at Limerick and he has won three since. “He was unlucky the last day to get a fall but it did nothing to his confidence thank god. Two and a half is his trip and I’m delighted for his owner James Moran and that’s Paul (Townend)’s first winner for me.” By Tom Weekes
