Byrnes opens hurdle account before turning pro

Philip Byrnes will join the professional riding ranks next week and he built up for that move in the best possible fashion when teaming up with his brother Cathal to land the Joe Cooney Memorial Hurdle with Wonder Laish at Kilbeggan.

Byrnes (17) enjoyed plenty of success on the pony racing circuit and has been seen to good effect in bumpers riding four winners for Emmet Mullins as well as further success for his home yard. This was his first victory over hurdles. Play The Game set the pace in this two miles event but was pressed by Eclair De Beaufeu and the odds-on Wonder Laish at the final flight.

The 4/6 favourite quickened up best on the run-in to score by a length, with Eclair De Beaufeu edging out Play The Game for the runner-up spot.

Cathal Byrnes said, “That’s Philip’s first winner over hurdles and it’s great that the owner gave him the opportunity. He turns conditional on Monday.

“He’s a fair horse on the Flat and this race suited him. We’ll have a look at the programme and he has options on the Flat and over hurdles.”