Phoenix Cowboy outguns fancied bumper rivals The Paddy Smyth Memorial Apprentice Maiden promised to be one of the more interesting races on the evening at Ballinrobe and so it proved as the three principals came to the fore. Bumper winners Dewcup and My Mate Mozzie just shaded it in the market but it was Flat recruit Phoenix Cowboy that came out on top. Sam Ewing’s mount made headway between the aforementioned pair to lead off the home bend and the 5/2 chance kept on well to hold My Mate Mozzie by half a length. Dewcup was hampered when the winner made his move at the home turn and the 11/8 favourite finished four and a half lengths away in third. Winning trainer Ger Lyons' brother and assistant Shane said, "We’re delighted to get it. My father is from Louisburgh and it’s nice to come back here. "Ballinrobe always put on a spectacular show - great ground, great facilities, and when the race is there like that it’s nice to come with a runner. We don’t come here that often. “He’s owned by American owners and they’ll be delighted.” (AM & EM)
