Maye blossoms with first success for McConnell

Hasiyna had a really good run here two weeks ago and she flew for me today. Jess is in with me four days a week, so it was great to give her a spin on a good one.

Claimer Coen collects on Coincidental Glory

Adam (Caffrey, stable jockey) said to me the last time that the horse might benefit from claiming off him and taking the 7lb off his back was a big help today. Sam (Coen) does really well, is great value for 7lb and he is very strong. We were drawn wide so our biggest thing was to get settled and we did. I’m delighted for the lads who are good supporters of mine.

Thorne making rapid returns with Instant Appeal

we said we would test the waters over seven furlongs because there was no race for him until mid-February and he was in ripping form. I was keen to get him back out and obviously he loves the surface. He has been a remarkable horse the last couple of months for us and is flying the flag. We are thinking about going to the Good Friday meeting in Newcastle for a couple of our horses and I think a stiff mile would suit Instant Appeal. We have an eye on a race and maybe he’ll have a prep run, possibly over a mile here on February 20. He's very lightly-raced and, in fairness, he presented to us in great shape. We bought him in an online sale and I think these online sales will become more prevalent in the future because not everyone can get to see these horses or get to the sales. It was good timing for the sellers and also for us. The lads are having great enjoyment and fun.

Khan Da King wins again!

Team Cromwell collects the Christmas cash

Eddie and Wendy (O'Leary, owners) had her at the breeze-ups in May but she wasn't making enough money. Eddie liked her so much that he decided to hang on to her, and she just took time to mature and develop. I think she is going to do well with a little bit more time, she's a lovely big filly and will be lovely in time. Gavin just said she's a lovely, uncomplicated, straightforward filly. He said to jump out wherever you are, get in a rhythm and just make the best of your way home then and see how you go. He said she is doing everything right at home, and said he would be disappointed if she didn't run a big race. She hit the line strong and it was a great trip for a first time out. I definitely think she will step up in trip in time.

De Aguiar registers second success

the winner of his Doncaster race is now rated 104, so he ran to a good level and I'd say he just came forward, and going up to a mile and a-half is a plus. He was very straightforward, stays well and he’s a nice horse who handles out there well. I think he will improve again. I didn't want to start racing too early today so company from Nuit was fine, I didn't mind. Robson knows what to do and he had him right. He told me that he was doing everything well at home. He said he hadn't run in a while, but he will improve. I think he's better at a mile and a-half. When you go that trip, he has a bit of class to travel through the race well. When you let him down, he stays.

Sixteen-year-old Holohan rides first winner in Dundalk's finale