McNally back among the winners

Bobby McNally made a welcome return to the winners’ enclosure after a lengthy absence when partnering Hold Em Cowboy to a decisive victory in the Yellow Furze Handicap Hurdle.

McNally, who gained his previous success all the way back on St Patricks Day 2008 aboard Prince Of Leisure at Down Royal, relinquished his riding licence through lack of opportunities before taking it out again this year.

“It’s good to be back!” said McNally before explaining his reason for giving race-riding, which included a spell with Paul Nicholls at Ditcheat, a break for five years.

“When things are going good and riding winners it’s all good but when you start driving up and down the country to ride bad ones you can’t make a living,” said a delighted McNally.

Hold Em Cowboy (10/1) struck the front approaching the final flight and drew clear on the run-in for a convincing four and a half lengths victory over Easy Vic Serra Nova and Shantalla completed the minor placings.

Elliott, a first cousin of McNally, said, “He won well. He’s been knocking on the door and is entitled to win one. Bobby gave him a great ride and that’s his first winner in over five and a half years. Fair play to him!”

Additional reporting by Gary Carson