A special winner for the Murtagh family

Caroline Murtagh (18) rode her first winner on the occasion of her father Johnny's 44th birthday when Regal Power landed the naasracecourse.com Apprentice Handicap.

In the colours of her mother Orla, Caroline came through from off the pace on Regal Power (14/1), to get up close home along the rail to triumph by half a length from Is Feider Leis

Regal Power was having his ninth start for Johnny Murtagh today and he said: "It's the best birthday present I've ever had.

"It's great for her as she's very determined. I wish I was that dedicated when I was 18.

"She wants to give it a go. She rides well and she's been riding plenty of work with the lads.

"I said to her that it was his first time over seven and to take her time. He's a horse that likes to be dropped out and to find his feet.

"He's the same over five furlongs – he's been flying home.

"When the gap came he quickened up well. It's great – I needed that winner." (GC & EM)