Jockey Josh Williamson with his dad Norman, left, and Housemartin © Photo Healy Racing
Josh Williamson, son of former outstanding National Hunt jockey Norman Williamson, partnered his first winner through Housemartin in the qualified riders' handicap hurdle at Clonmel.
The teenager rode a patient race aboard the six-year-old gelding in the first-time tongue-strap and they closed on Natural Breeze two out, with the pair clear of the remainder.
Housemartin ground down the leader at the last although he wasn't foot perfect there. Housemartin edged left, but was driven out by Williamson on the run-in to score by four and a-quarter lengths at 15/2.
Natural Breeze (9/2cf) ran well for a long way but had to settle for second and was some 35 lengths clear of Shean Glory (10/1).
Williamson said: "It’s the best feeling in the world - I had my first ride on St Stephen’s Day and I’ve been waiting for this day ever since.
"It’s a brilliant feeling and, of course, my father, Norman, was with Edward (O'Grady, trainer) for years, so to get the first one for him is extra-special.
"I got bitten by the bug on my first ride. That’s my first ride over hurdles and I had my first ride in a point-to-point last Sunday, so it’s great.
"I’ve just turned 17 and am in fifth year in school. I’d like to make a go of this. I just got my jumps licence so hopefully I’ll get some point to point rides and see how we go after that.
"I’m with Gordon Elliott every morning I can. I’m in school at the moment but last year, for transition year, I was there all year, pretty much. “
Regarding his father Norman he added: “I’ve seen plenty of videos and everyone says that if you could ride half as good as him, you’d be very good."
O'Grady said: "Norman rode his first winner on this track and this was Josh's first ride over hurdles. I'm thrilled and also thankful to my other half (Kay) for putting him up.
"It is very special and we're delighted.
"The horse had shown a little bit but went off last year and when he ended up, he wouldn't beat me. We did a few changes though and he looks well now.
"Let's hope this is the first of many for him (Williamson)."
Norman Williamson's first winner came on Jack 'n' Jill at Clonmel in 1987.
Additional reporting by Tom Weekes
