18+ | Commercial Content | T&Cs apply | Wagering and T&Cs apply | Play Responsibly | Advertising Disclosure
icon
John O'Riordan

John O'Riordan

Penny lands the money to give Patrick O'Brien first winner

Sat 2nd Jul 2022, 19:03

Penny Jar wins readily under Paddy O'Brien Penny Jar wins readily under Paddy O'Brien
© Photo Healy Racing

Penny Jar produced an electrifying burst of speed to quickly settle Division l of the Adare Manor Opportunity Handicap Hurdle at Bellewstown.

The Patrick Downey trained gelding had failed to trouble the judge on ten previous starts but hinted at ability when fifth at Punchestown last November.

Off the track since then, he clearly benefitted from the break, as he proved much too strong for his opponents.

On the approach to the final flight, Penny Jar still had plenty to do but jockey Paddy O'Brien produced the six-year-old between horses and he quickly raced clear to win easily.

Paddy O'Brien, riding his first winner, said: "All credit to the horse really, he stuck it out well. I knew he would stay and stay, so I was happy the whole way.

"He finished very well, he's a very straightforward horse.

"I'm just delighted it is done. I'm from Garristown and I'm 20. I'm in Gavin Cromwell's every day and I go into Pat's in the evenings."

Additional reporting by Michael Graham

About John O'Riordan
John has worked for the Press Association since 2022. He also writes a weekly column for The Irish Field and is a regular contributor to the Irish Racing Yearbook. He has previously written for the Racing Post, Irish Examiner and Irish Daily Mirror. He has been involved in racing for over three decades; having experience as a syndicate member, sole owner and breeder.