RATHKEALE trainer Eric McNamara landed a timely double at Roscommon on Monday. The opening leg was secured in the featured €25,000 Connacht National Handicap Chase with Hermino AA – backed from 28s into 11/1 – under a good ride from Tom Kelly.
Assistant trainer Conor McNamara told irishracing.com: “He was good and I imagine we’ll look for something similar in a couple of weeks time.”
“He definitely needs a bit of a trip anyway and that was brilliant today.
“He had a lovely low weight and Tom Kelly gave him a brilliant ride. Tom is in with us two days a week and he’s a very good rider.
- External Walls: Up to €8,000 Grant
- Attic: Up to €1,500 Grant
- Cavity Walls: Up to €1,700 Grant
- Internal Dry Lining: Up to €4,500 Grant
“He was in Enda Bolger’s (Bruree) for a long time and did very well. He’s a fine rider and will definitely be used plenty.”
‘AA could now be entered in the Galway Blazers.
The winner is jointly owned by businessman Pat Lynch and Fiona Loftus, the welcoming proprietor of Neville’s Cross Inn, Kilfinny. McNamara later scored with 20/1 chance Kilkee Bay – owned by Aiden Larkin, John Larkin, Paudie Dowling and Kenneth Fox – in the Roscommon (Q.R.) Handicap Chase.
The gelding was given the perfect ride by Joe Dunne.
“There weren’t too many horses in the race gave themselves chances of winning. I wouldn’t go over-reacting but it was lovely to get it,” said McNamara.
“He has been a disappointing horse, his work is okay at home. Hopefully he might get a bit of confidence and build on that now.”
Meanwhile, there is a evening meeting at Limerick this Wednesday (June 10).