Molly proves tough on return to action

Molly Hall rallied gamely to stick her head in front close home and land the first division of the Irish Examiner Handicap at Killarney.

Robert Whearty made the running on the Parish Hall mare but Alan McIntyre's charge was joined a furlong from home and looked to be headed in the closing stages by Chimeric

Stamina kicked in late on for Molly Hall as she prevailed near the line to record a neck success.

It was a second career success for the 13/2 winner, who was last seen in action over hurdles at Clonmel in February.

"That's my second winner and I'm delighted. She gallops and stays and coming off a break, you'd be very happy with that,” said McIntyre.

"We wanted to run in the 1m6f race today and were concerned about the distance but she bounced well and Robert said she battled back very well.

"She has three runs over hurdles but isn't handicapped as she was one length 'out' (of the qualifying standard) so she'll have to run again over hurdles. Summer hurdles will be on the cards and we'll also look for something on the flat over 1m6f."

He added:- "I work for Michael and Ruth Foley at Old Leighlin Stables and we have 12 or 13 in training, mainly on the flat. We have horses for Galway, some for premier handicaps and are 100% looking for more business."

(Quotes by Tom Weekes)