Rockholm Boy's powerful final burst gives Hourigan his first Galway Plate

MICHAEL HOURIGAN, who has enjoyed many great days in a splendid career, landed the Galway Plate for the first time at Ballybrit yesterday when Rockholm Boy stayed on powerfully to deprive Wotsitoyaa, who looked sure to score turning for home.

The winner was brilliantly handled by claimer Keith Hadnett, who was enjoying easily his biggest day in the saddle.

Commented a delighted Hadnett: “It’s a super feeling to win the Plate. He was on his head early on, but I gave him a chance down the back.