Warren Cafferty made a glorious transformation from stable-boy to winning jockey when partnering Sophiyah to success in Derrinstown Stud/SCA Apprentice Handicap at Downpatrick yesterday.
Cafferty answered a late call to partner the mare after Michael Cleere (who was reported sick) failed to turn-up for the ride. The 17-year-old from Mayo had been due to lead up Sophiyah for boss Joanna Morgan.
He showed composure when thrust into action and drove the mare into the lead at the furlong pole to collar Sunshine Guest. Lily Shing Shang finished well to grab second.
'He was meant to be leading her up. It's a lucky break. I didn't think he would be strong enough as she is tough mare. But fair play to him, he gave her a good ride considering he has only had a handful of rides,' said Morgan.
Paumafi gained a valuable success as she ended her racing career by posting her first win in the Proctor & Gamble Handicap Hurdle.
The mare, who is in foal to Great Palm, showed her rivals a clean pair of heels when setting sail for home three out in the contest and beating Relic Hunter by two-and-a-half lengths.
Barry Geraghty sent Big King into the lead five out in the Cuisine De France EBF Beginners Chase and the gelding stayed on well to beat Environment by six lengths.
The front-running Tower Heights fought back gamely to land the Coca Cola Maiden Hurdle after being headed by Which Half two out in the two mile six furlongs contest.
25/1 shot Oneofthesimpsons also was at the head of affairs throughout when landing the RHM Bakeries Handicap Chase while Otavi emerged on top from a close finish to the Mace NI Champion Apprentice Handicap Chase.
