Woodville Star shines

WOODVILLE STAR recorded hear second win over fences with a flawless pillar to post success in the Beginners Chase yesterday at Thurles to complete a double the second in as many days for in form rider Conor O'Dwyer.

After the well supported 5 to 4 favourite came home on the bridle to beat Keplson by a facile six lengths, winning trainer Liam Burke said, "She seems to run well when fresh and although she handled the heavy ground well today, she would prefer it better. I will run her in a winners' race at Limerick on St Patrick's Day en route to the Power Gold Cup at Fairyhouse over Easter.

Straffan based trainer Tom Taaffe saddled his fourth winner in as many racing days in the Cashel Maiden Hurdle when the gambled on Kaiser Sosa bravely responded to the persistent urgings of O'Dwyer from the penultimate flight to deny The Grey Mare in the dying strides.

Taaffe, who purchased the Welsh Term gelding at Fairyhouse as a four year old two years ago, described the winner as a nice horse with a good pedigree who will go handicapping.

"My horses were below par before Christmas and I am delighted for some of my clients who have shown a lot of patience with their horses. They are flying at present and let's hope it continues," said Taaffe.

Michael Kelly, who was assistant to Newmarket handler Hugh Collingridge before setting up three miles outside Galway city last June, saddled his first winner when Jihaad battled back gamely to beat Ziggy The Great in the Devils Bit Handicap Hurdle.

Partnered by Adrian Maguire's nephew, Jason, who incurred a 14 day whip suspension at Downpatrick on Wednesday, the bottom weight will try to win another little handicap according to his handler, who has six jumpers and 10 Flat campaigners.

Bill Bishop, who finished seventh behind Aidan O'Brien's Cheltenham bound Fawn Prince on his debut at Leopardstown last month, relished the very testing underfoot conditions to spreadeagle the field under David Marnane in the Tipperary Flat Race.

The 15 length winner provided Tramore trainer John Roche, father of professional jockeys, Alan and Paul, with his second success.

Lafontd'or, a half brother to Danoli, stayed on well from the turn in under Brian Moran to land the penultimate bumper for trainer Willie Austin.