Four-timer puts O’Connor in control in jockeys title race

DEREK O’Connor is in virtually unstoppable form at present and the Galwegian, well on course to win an eighth consecutive point-to-point riders championship, partnering a sparkling four-timer at yesterday’s well-attended Bartlemy fixture.

The 28-year-old will seldom ride an easier winner than he did aboard Annacarton (4/7) for Jimmy Mangan’s confirmed fast-ground specialist was always toying with his rivals in the six-runner open. Annacarton made most of the running, easing clear on the run to the final of the 14 obstacles to contain French Accordion by two and a half lengths.

With Mangan on duty at Killarney, his wife Mary remarked: “We’ll see what comes up, but Annacarton will probably run in another open before the end of the season.”