18+ | Commercial Content | T&Cs apply | Wagering and T&Cs apply | Play Responsibly | Advertising Disclosure
icon
Michael Graham

Michael Graham

Bite That survives a scare to grab his first victory

Sun 14th Aug 2022, 14:50

Gary Noonan Gary Noonan
© Photo Healy Racing

Gary Noonan took the riding honours aboard Bite That (6/1) in the Frank Gillane Memorial Handicap Hurdle at Tramore.

The six-year-old Milan gelding improved into second behind Flyaway Maggie on the long run to the second last.

He responded to Noonan's urgings to lead approaching that flight but, as he got near it, he appeared reluctant to jump it and reared slightly before jumping it very awkwardly.

Bite That almost took a chunk of turf out of the ground as he pecked badly upon landing, but Noonan retained the partnership and the pair were swiftly back on an even keel.

Bite That was ridden before the last to keep the revs up and a good jump there saw him keep on to fend off the closing Jazz Ranger (5/1) and Hard Target (8/1) in second and third respectively.

Trainer Pat Flynn said: "He has taken his time and will be a better chaser.

"Gavin (O'Mahoney) part owns him and we met out in the Canaries, we drink in the same bar out there. He has another horse with me as well.

"He will come on and just wants the fast ground. He never saw the second last.

"He might go for another hurdle before we send him on over fences."

This was Bite That's breakthrough success on his 13th start.

Additional reporting by Donal Murphy

About Michael Graham
Michael has worked in horse racing journalism for more than 15 years, having also written a weekly betting column on Gaelic football and hurling for a newspaper. He is involved in writing the My Racing Story features on this website. He spent a year in South Africa completing a Diploma in Business Administration and also studied Newspaper Journalism in Belfast. He enjoys playing 5-a-side football on a regular basis.