Townend rides out claim with treble

PAUL TOWNEND, the teenage sensation of 2008, rounded off the old year with a spectacular treble at Tramore yesterday.

He began with yet another polished display aboard Indian Spring in the Metal Man Novice Hurdle. Edward O’Grady’s charge had been utterly frustrating, but did his job nicely, after the pilot had partnered him with real patience.

Commented Townend: “That’s the first winner I’ve ridden for Mr O’Grady. I only ever rode one other for him and that was on the flat. He did it nicely and was probably the best horse in the race!”