Josh Williamson savours 'best feeling in the world' after emulating famous dad

Norman Williamson also rode the first of his 1,268 winners here at Clonmel back in 1987

MUDDY MARVEL: Josh Williamson with his dad Norman after Housemartin won the Kilclooney Woods Qualified Riders’ Handicap Hurdle at Clonmel. Picture: Healy Racing

The rain-sodden conditions on Thursday afternoon in Powerstown Park could do nothing to dampen the spirits of young jockey Josh Williamson as he recorded his first winner on what was his first ride over hurdles.

Son of Gold Cup and Champion Hurdle-winning rider Norman, who also rode the first of his 1,268 winners here at Clonmel in 1987, and riding for Edward O’Grady, with whom his father had such a successful association, the 17-year-old was aboard Housemartin in the Kilclooney Woods Qualified Riders’ Handicap Hurdle and rode him with the confidence of one with far greater experience than he can count upon.