Skontonovski records tenth career success

Skontonovski (8/1) notched his tenth career victory when landing the Moyne Handicap in tremendous style under Adam Caffrey.

Caffrey, now one ahead in the apprentice title race, secured a good early position just behind the leaders on the seven-year-old who took over in front early in the straight and quickly settled matters.

Clear at the furlong pole, the Harbour Watch gelding passed the post five-and-a-half lengths ahead of market leader Warazam

Trainer Ado McGuinness said: "His owner Jimmy Fairhurst wrote to Gary (O'Gorman, handicapper) about the horse last week but he loves fast ground and around here you have to be near the front and the other horse (Galician Girl) helped him along. He always wins a couple of races every year and the boys have had great fun with him.

"He has been a great horse and when he gets down to his mark he wins his races. He is in at Roscommon on Monday and I'd say he'll have to run as Gary won't be too easy on him."

He added: "It's neck and neck in the apprentice title but I'm running out of ammunition for Adam. We're not a huge big yard and he hasn't ridden many maiden winners, as I don't have horses of that calibre, but he has been brilliant. Most of his winners have come in handicaps which isn't an easy thing to do.

"Adam rode out with me while still in school and is with me three years now. He initially went 30-odd rides before getting his first winner but has repaid me and works hard at his weight. He does a really good job and both he and James Ryan are best buddies. Hopefully he can keep his head in front now."

Quotes from Tom Weekes