Effernock Fizz gave Cian Collins first career winner © Photo Healy Racing
Effernock Fizz gave Tralee born trainer Cian Collins a first career win under rules when displaying real battling qualities to take the featured Grade B Larkin's Bar & Francie Shehan's Bar Handicap Hurdle at Killarney.
Having only her second run for Collins, the mare was sent straight into her customary front running role by jockey Darragh O'Keeffe, before fighting off all challengers in the straight to give her rookie handler a day to remember.
Both Outback Flyer and Rock On Seamie arrived with strong runs approaching the final flight but try as they might, neither could get past the daughter of Lovelace.
It was a seventh career win for the mare who has won three times on the flat, as well as four over hurdles.
Winning trainer Cian Collins said; "that's my first winner and I'm delighted. Darragh gave her a great ride and she is a very tough mare who stays well.
"I thought the ground could be gone for her but we got away with it and the rain stayed away. I have her a month, I'm delighted to get that first win out of her and she'll keep going.
"I have 25 or 30 horses and a good few of them are young horses for next year.
"I'm based between Trim and Navan and rode as a jockey but got injured. I broke my back so had to pack it it but I'm happy enough with the training now."
Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes
