Hoban shines on Queenie

Promising apprentice Conor Hoban struck in the Gerry Duffy Handicap at Listowel aboard Queenie Keen

The Michael Halford-trained filly was always to the fore and hit the front turning for home. Sassaway emerged to give chase but was never getting on terms with the winner, eventually going down by a length-and-a-half.

The winner was well-backed from 9/2 into 11/4 favourite and Halford was full of praise for the young pilot afterwards.

"He did well to win from a wide draw. The filly showed plenty of pace to get across and Conor controlled the race brilliantly," said the Kildare handler.

"She has some very good runs at the Curragh and this was her first time back in her own age group, which is a big help.

"She's versatile as regards ground and will keep handicapping for the time being."