Halford Rides First Professional Winner The Philip Rothwell-trained Ballybrittas (9/2) was victorious in the Adare Manor Opportunity Handicap Chase. The seven-year-old took up the running three out and, although making a slight mistake at the last, went on to win by 2¼ lengths. Speaking after the race, Philip Rothwell said: "These are very famous colours (of Hardy Eustace) and Lar Byrne is a very good owner. People obviously know that Lar is in rehab for the last number of months and he is doing very well. It will be a long while before we see Lar at the races next, but this is a fantastic boost for him and is a special winner. "The horse's jumping hadn't been great over fences and had fallen down the handicap. He made one mistake today but the fact they had gone so hard gave him a chance to get back into it. "It is lovely to get Josh a winner, as I'd always have been friendly with his father Mick and mum Louise." Halford added: "It is lovely to get this win as I'm only a professional for three weeks. I'm based with Gordon Elliott, I do a day with Enda Bolger, who has been very good to me, and I go to Noel Meade as well. "My weight is good, I can claim off bottom weight and Gary Cribbin is my agent. I'm looking to get as many rides and winners as I can, and this was my first ride for Philip Rothwell." (Quotes from Tom Weekes)
