Dream start for handler Sloan Jamie Sloan made a winning start to his training career as Gallyhill delivered in Division One of the Dennison Commercials Maiden race for 4-Y-O at Kirkistown point-to-point on Saturday. Sloan trains out of Ian Ferguson's yard in Cullybackey, Co Antrim, having taken over the licence from Ferguson who had the likes of Zemsky, Simonsig and Rathvinden through his hands during a long and successful career. This was Gallyhill's debut and the Getaway gelding travelled well to lead after the second last before making the best way home under Noel McParlan. The pair passed the post two and a half lengths to the good at 5/1. Owner Wilson Dennison enjoyed a one-two in the race as his Ballybegg chased Gallyhill home. Former point-to-point rider Sloan said: "A good start! We were thinking of running him in April but he was too weak - he just needed time to grow into himself. We gave him a good summer to mature and it has paid dividends now. He did loads of growing over the summer. "I was quietly confident but sure four-year-old maidens you never know what is going to happen. "We just didn't want him to get there too soon. He still would be a bit green, he is going to come on a lot from his first run but he jumped well and got through the ground well. "I have 12 or 13 in. I'd say he (Gallyhill) will be sold now." Ian Ferguson, who was also in attendance, said: "Jamie has worked back and forward for me since he was 12. He has travelled and has worked for top trainers in France. "It's great for the kid. He's in my yard using the facilities and it was either that or me selling the place."
