Emmet McNamara, Champion Apprentice Jockey in 2009, was in action for the first time over hurdles at Cork yesterday, partnering his father Eric McNamara’s Hevelius to finish 10th of 23 in the 2m4f maiden hurdle.

McNamara Jnr had been experiencing weight difficulties in recent times and his trainer father said “Emmet still has his 3lbs claim on the Flat and while he’ll be combining both Flat and jumping, he won’t be doing any weights below around 9st4lbs.”

He added “Emmet had a great success riding for Ger Lyons and he was also in England for a spell and he is now based with Gordon Elliott.”

Jockey McNamara, who partnered 27 winners in 2009, added “Hevelius gave me a grand spin and I enjoyed it. I am looking forward to riding again over hurdles but can only ride over jumps for dad and Gordon Elliott for two weeks. I’ve to do an interview before gaining my full license.”

Thomas Weekes