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Michael Graham

Michael Graham

Gorthill a local success for McCaldin

Fri 19th May 2023, 20:54

Noel McParlan steers Gorthill homeNoel McParlan steers Gorthill home
© Photo Healy Racing

Gorthill (11/2) stayed on best for Noel McParlan to win the maiden hunters' chase at Downpatrick by four lengths.

This extended 2m7f proved well within his compass as he was strong up the hill to beat Big Girl Betty (16/1). There was a further nine lengths back to third-placed Carrig Wells (12/1).

Caroline McCaldin said: "I train in Dromara and this is my local track. It is a lovely track, Richard Lyttle and his team are brilliant here.

"I think that is five winners under rules now. They are all special because it very rarely happens!

"I train 16 and it is a labour of love, it is a hobby and a very expensive. It is a tough game, but it is well worth it.

"This was always the aim for him, but we will make a decision (on his next outing) when we get home."

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.