Eighteen year old Robert Smithers partnered his first career winner at the Curragh today, winning the concluding O'Brien's Wines Handicap on Castle Guest for his employer Michael Halford.

Smithers, riding for just the 15th time, showed useful strength in the saddle when keeping the gelding going for a half length win over Aspen Mountain and afterwards Halford stated “I'm delighted for Robert as he works really hard, and he deserves this. He's good value for 10lb and has a cool head.

“I’m also delighted for Paul (Rooney, owner) as he's given so many lads a chance in my yard.

"Nine furlongs is probably his ideal trip but I thought a mile here on a stiff track would be okay. He's very genuine."

Smithers, from Kilberry, Co Kildare added "I've been in the yard three years but was out for a year with a broken leg; that's my first winner."

By Tom Weekes, quotes from Alan Magee