Whelan finishes season in style

A double on Bunairgead and Lady Wingshot for his boss Jim Bolger (who later completed a treble with Miracle Cure) proved a fitting end to the 2012 turf season for teenager Ronan Whelan, who was crowned Champion Apprentice for the first time.

Whelan has proven himself an outstanding prospect over recent months and savoured his double, highlighted by his first stakes-race success on Lady Wngshot, and the occasion as he brought his seasonal tally to an impressive 31 on the two Coolcullen fillies, both emphatic winners.

Already successful at listed and Group 3 level this season Lady Wingshot, in the colours of Ballylinch Stud, outclassed her rivals in the listed Knockaire Stakes, stretching clear in the final furlong to slam Ondeafears by four lengths.