Amateur's ride gains Universal approval

Dermot Weld, fresh from two winners yesterday, saddled the opening winner at Galway today when Robbie McNamara partnered his Universal Truth to win the Topaz Maiden Hurdle.

Amateur rider McNamara, similar to his winning ride on Fort Defiance yesterday, was in the 'box' position throughout, led from four out and, while he jumped well through the race, a fine leap at the final flight, helped carry him to a half length win over stayng on Drumfire

Afterwards a chuffed Weld stated “'the amateur' gave that a fair ride!”

He added “Universal Truth jumped very well, not jump at that final flight, and he knew his job - we schooled him well at home. The runner-up looks very decent so it was a good performance to win.”