Hickey's Sonny May wins readily under O'Keeffe

Having made the breakthrough on his previous outing when landing a gamble at Gowran Park, Sonny May (4/1) followed up in Punchestown's novice handicap hurdle.

Only six flights were jumped with the two in the back straight omitted due to the low-lying sun.

The chesnut son of Hillstar was held up in touch and loomed up travelling well on the outer turning for home. In front at the last, he was just nudged out by Sean O'Keeffe to account for If You Let Me by two and three-quarter lengths. 

Owner/trainer Denis Hickey said: "He was very good. He’s a seven-year-old and has a bit of age now and is stronger.

“It’s great to win with a homebred and I’ve only two horses in training. I ride him most days. 

“He had a few problems and only ran twice last year and ran badly but we’ve ironed out a few problems. 

“We’ll find something for him around Christmas.” 

Quotes from Alan Magee