Sticktotheplan Stuns at Galway Races as Kennedy Makes Winning Return

Galway, Ireland – Day 2 of the prestigious Galway Races kicked off with a bang ‍as Cormac ‍Farrell’s Sticktotheplan, ridden by Ricky Doyle, ‍delivered a stunning 22-1 upset in the opening Colm⁣ Quinn⁣ BMW ⁣Novice Hurdle. The seven-runner contest saw the outsider surge through against the rail to claim a memorable victory,much to the delight of his connections.

A Surprise Package Delivers for Farrell and Doyle

The Colm Quinn BMW Novice Hurdle was expected to be a battle between the Willie Mullins-trained duo of Vicar Street and La Note Verte. However, as the field approached the final hurdle, the complexion of the race dramatically shifted. While Emily Love and Timeless Treaty were making their challenges, it was the outsider, Sticktotheplan, guided expertly by Ricky Doyle, who found an extra gear. The pair quickened impressively to cross the line a convincing two and a quarter lengths ahead of their rivals.

Owner Cormac Farrell was ecstatic with the performance, revealing his long-held belief in the horse. “We fancied him and had a few quid on⁢ as we’ve always thought he was a very smart horse,” Farrell shared. “It has taken⁤ time for the ⁤penny to drop and to race correctly. His jumping⁤ has come together and ⁣he has a huge future.”

Farrell also humorously recounted his struggles to sell the horse, adding, “I⁣ tried to sell him on several occasions but nobody would buy him so I’m delighted, as I’ll be ⁢properly paid for him at some stage! I’m a big fan and he is a very exciting horse. He is ⁢a fine horse and that ground is as good as he’d want.” The win was particularly special for Farrell, who relished the opportunity to compete at Galway.⁣ “It is⁣ so exciting to be in Galway as we don’t get many winners so to have a nice horse to⁤ run in a Listed race is⁤ great.”

Jack Kennedy’s Successful Return Continues

The excitement continued in the Latin Quarter Beginners Chase, where jockey Jack Kennedy marked‍ his successful return to the track with a victory aboard Gordon Elliott’s King of Kingsfield (7-2). Kennedy,who has been⁢ making a strong comeback this month after an injury layoff,showcased his skill and‍ determination aboard the‍ promising four-year-old.

“It’s great to be back,” Kennedy commented after the race, reflecting his positive ⁣return to the saddle. His partnership with King of Kingsfield proved formidable,adding another win to his impressive recent form.

Catch All the Galway Races Action

For racing enthusiasts ⁢eager to relive these thrilling moments and follow the rest of the action, the Galway Races are broadcast live on RTÉ2 and RTÉ Player. Tune in from Monday to Wednesday starting at 5pm, and on Thursdays from 2pm, to catch all the excitement from this iconic racing festival.

Watch The Galway Races live on @RTE2 and⁣ @RTEPlayer now #GalwayRaces