Killian Leonard after recording his first winner© Photo Healy Racing
Killian Leonard recorded his first racecourse success as he partnered Malicious Intent (8/1) to victory in the Meadowview Stables Handicap. Aimhirgin Lass (4/1 last night and from 2/1 to 7/4 on-course) was all the rage for this one mile one furlong contest but she couldn't hold off the winner who carried just over two stone less.
The aforementioned favourite attempted to make all under Declan McDonogh but she was challenged and head by Malicious Intent inside the final furlong and half a length separated them at the line.
Victor Clifford trains the winner and he said afterwards: "He's made all of glass and has had plenty problems. He's also a bit quirky and I've to lead him into the stalls myself.
"A lot of credit must go to Wayne Lordan who rode him first time out this year and made a man out of him.
"Killian gave him a beautiful ride and followed my instructions to the letter. He likes that ground but we've had to be very patient."
Speaking on attheraces Leonard added: "It was great. I was with Ger Lyons for the summer and learned loads there riding work with Colin Keane and Gary Carroll. It was a great experience.
"I'm down with Susan Finn now, Billy Lee's sister, doing the breezers and I'm learning loads there riding the two-year-olds.
"I'm starting back in my leaving cert year on Monday and I'll head up to Ger as much as I can, whenever I get breaks. Hopefully I'll go up there as a full-time apprentice next year.
"I had issues with the weight before but I got it straight and I have no bother now. It's an advantage to be able to claim ten off eight four.
"I rode about fifty winners in pony races."
STEWARDS REPORT
The Stewards interviewed K.J. Leonard, rider of Malicious Intent, concerning his use of the whip in this race. Evidence was heard from the rider concerned in the presence of V.Clifford, trainer who accompanied the rider in the Stewards room. Having viewed a recording of the race and considered the evidence the Stewards were of the opinion that the rider was in breach of Regulation 10.3(f), in that he used the whip with excessive frequency and having considered his record, cautioned him concerning his future responsibilities in this regard.
Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes
