O'Sullivan has the key to Getaway Runner-up Lariat traded heavy odds-on 'in the run' when appearing to get the upper hand in the closing stages of the John Thomas McNamara Handicap Hurdle at Listowel, but A Nod To Getaway proved game in hanging on to triumph. A generally consistent type, A Nod To Getaway has given his connections plenty of enjoyment, and this afternoon gained a deserved success after placings of '2322,' clinging on by half a length with amateur rider Alan O'Sullivan up top for the first time. Said winning trainer Paul O'Flynn in the aftermath: "He wasn't winning out of turn as he had been running very well all year. He is a bit cute to the game now but Alan (O'Sullivan) said he liked being out in front and enjoyed it. "Alan is a brilliant jockey and while he had ridden plenty of work for me that's his first race for me. We'll keep going over hurdles but, in time, he'll be better off over fences." The Raceday Stewards reviewed an incident in the closing stages of this race involving A Nod To Getaway, ridden by Mr Alan O'Sullivan, placed first, and Lariat (GB), ridden by D.J Gilligan, placed second, where it appeared slight contact was made between the two. Having viewed the recording of the race and considered the matter, the Raceday Stewards were satisfied that no further action was warranted. D.J Gilligan, rider of Lariat (GB), trained by Liam P Cusack, reported to the Clerk of the Scales that his mount received a slight bump at the 100 yard marker. (TW & EM)
