Rockonfamouslee gives Gilligan memorable first winner It was a double on the day for trainer Paul Gilligan, and it got even better as Ollie Gilligan, who celebrated his 19th birthday only yesterday, had his wish come true as he rode his first winner under rules with a gutsy performance. Gilligan was always happy to sit third throughout the contest and, when asked for his effort, responded well to pressure in what were tough conditions on the track. As the winning post loomed, so did Patrick Mullins aboard Heros De Saint, but Gilligan kept his mount straight and, under a strong drive, held on to land a memorable success by half a length. Speaking after the race, both winning rider and trainer said: "I had four point-to-point winners previously, and this is a great buzz. He stuck his neck out, and the horse was good and tough. "I'm based in Wexford with Sean and Donnchadh Doyle, so hopefully I'll give it a good go this season, although I have a long way to go to catch up to my older brothers!" Gilligan senior added: "This means a lot, as my four boys have now all ridden winners for us. Liam is a big addition at home currently, and the other lads are riding on the track. "For Ollie to ride his first winner in Galway, for a good local man, Peter Mulrooney, is a special day. "We are training a long time, and I couldn't work without the four lads, along with my wife Natalie. They are just super, and I'm glad to have all of them being part of the business. "We have our ups and downs, but if there are no rows, it means that it doesn't mean enough to people. They are committed and good at their jobs." Regarding the winner, he added: "Other than his mistakes, he'd have won his point-to-point, and this is a good horse." (Quotes from Tom Weekes)
