Downpatrick teenager Daniel McMenamin had a dream start to his racing career at Ayr when winning on his first ever racecourse ride on Western Rules trained by his boss Nicky Richards.
The 17-year old came through to excellent advantage when winning in a photo finish. The local amateur rider, a graduate of the pony racing circuit, said: “I was absolutely over the moon. I must thank Mr Richards and the owners for putting me up.
The local family have no previous association with horse racing and Daniel added:“ It was amazing knowing all my family and friends in Downpatrick were watching.”
McMenamin rode numerous winners on the pony racing circuit and rode some point-to-pointers in training before a spell with Brian Hamilton. He said: “I want to thank Brian. He was very good to me and coached me well in riding. I owe him a lot. He’s a top trainer and knows how to ride and was himself a champion amateur.
“I have been with Nicky Richards for six months and hope to remain here in the future. I might consider being a conditional rider when I gain more experience.
“Winning at Ayr last week is a day I’ll never forget and I just hope it was the first of many wins.”
