Kempes scores for Kernan as McCullagh lands double
It is a rare occurrence when McCullagh rides at 8-0 but he seized his opportunity, producing Kempes with a well-timed challenge to beat gallant top weight Rhythm’N Roots, from which he was receiving 21lb.
Winning trainer Frances Crowley explained “He was the last yearling that we couldn’t sell and the lads only bought him in May. He has now won twice and finished second twice and should make an even better 3-year-old next season.”
McCullagh completed his double when Grand Corniche captured the mile maiden for trainer Charles O’Brien, holding the late flourish of the unlucky Flyingit by the narrowest margin.
Also in double form were Seamus Heffernan, who won both divisions of the seven furlong 2-year-old maiden and Johnny Murtagh who recorded a handicap double on Rockazar and Fitzroy.
Rockie gave trainer Tom Hogan a rare two-year-old winner in the opener and Heffernan quickly followed up when partnering the Aidan O’Brien trained Major commitment to a narrow debut success.
Trainer Ger Lyons expressed the hope that Rockazar might win a premier handicap next season after the gelding defied joint top weight in the Newpark Hotel Handicap while his rider, Johnny Murtagh, ended the day with another victory on Fitzroy, recording his first win since joining Dick Donohoe.
Michael Kinane, riding in Ireland for the first time since his horrific fall at the Curragh on August 20, was seen at his strongest when getting the Tom Cooper trained filly Skyscape home a narrow winner of the Tote Account Handicap.
