Kelly gets off the mark for new boss Halford

Capable apprentice jockey Shane (B.) Kelly gained his first win since last May when steering Victor's Beach to the second leg of a double for his new boss Michael Halford, in the Dundalk Stadium - Light Up Your Night Handicap at Dundalk this evening.

Kelly went the brave man's route to success, forcing the winner thorough a narrow gap between horses in the closing stages, for a late neck win over Doc Holliday

Halford, successful with Settle For Red earlier, later said “Victor's beach had a chance on his run here the last time and Shane did exceptionally well to get him covered up and delivered at the right time.

“Shane only joined us a few months ago and while I didn't make him any promises, he works very hard and has been a big help to me at home; hopefully that win will help to kick him off.”

The race was confined to jockeys who haven't ridden more than 10 winners since March 24 2013 and Halford also added “I'm on the programmes' committee and am in favour of anything that gives someone a chance and as you can see, there were plenty of really good riders in that race.”

By Thomas Weekes, quotes from Alan Magee