Burke takes Listowel rivals to school
Stolberg’s victory in the Bank Of Ireland INH Flat Race led to jubilant scenes in the winner’s enclosure at Listowel.
Trained by Andrew McNamara, the gelded son of Vinnie Roe was winning on his racecourse debut in the hands of 16-year-old Jonathan Burke – who had half a day off school to take the ride.
Hitting the front a furlong out, the 16-1 chance settled down for a tussle with the Nina Carberry-ridden Giantofaman and prevailed by a length and a quarter.
Burke said: “It’s great to get a winner at Listowel on my first ride here. I had a winner from only my second ride back in April and that’s my third winner now in 15 rides, so things are going well.
“I’m doing my leaving cert this year (A-levels) so I had to take a half-day off school to come here.
“That wouldn’t normally be a big issue, but I told all the teachers not to back him so I think I’ll be in trouble tomorrow!”
McNamara said: “I thought he wouldn’t go on that ground, but he handled it very well as it turned out. I think he’s a very good horse.
“Young Jonathan gave him a brilliant ride. He took his time, used his head and I’d say he’ll go places.”
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