Collins trained Solly Attwell gains deserved first success

Having reached the frame on two of his last three starts, the Cian Collins trained Solly Attwell registered a first victory under rules when staying on nicely under champion conditional jockey Danny Gilligan to take the Tipperary Races On Twitter Handicap Hurdle.

Twice runner-up in his point-to-point career, this step up to three miles for the first time was always likely to suit the six-year-old gelding.

Showing gradual improvement each time he encountered a stamina test under rules, this distance proved the ideal tonic as the horse, also owned by the winning trainer, shed his maiden status.

There was a gap of two-and-a-quarter lengths back to second placed My Friend The Wind with Spatman De Cerisy five lengths further behind.

Cian Collins, “He’s very consistent and has been going up in the handicap while he was running well. It’s nice to get it done there and Danny gave him a great ride.

“He’s very versatile ground wise and he was recommended to me by Peter Flood. He’s going to be a better chaser than a hurdler and will keep going for the summer.

“Jordan is a bit sore after a fall at Killarney but I think he’ll be back riding by the weekend. It’s unfortunate for him.”