Grant off the mark on Nakasero

It was a red letter day for Adam Grant at Leopardstown tonight as he partnered his first winner aboard Nakasero in the Tote Handicap.

The Rosslare jockey was having his ninth racecourse outing after a successful pony racing career in the last few years.

He disputed early on the 6/1 shot before Solomon Coop took over after half a mile.

Grant got a lovely run up the inner to lead turning for home and his mount stayed on strongly in the closing stages to post a two-and-a-half length success.

“I’m delighted for Mark (Phelan) and all the connections and obviously for Adam as well, it’s his first winner and he’s a kid with a bright future," said de Bromhead.

“Adam has been with us, on and off, for years. He used to pony race with my son Jack so there is a good bit of history there.

“He’s always been a very good rider and I’m delighted to see him getting his first winner.

“He gave him a really sensible ride. They slowed it down and he got across to the rail, I thought he gave him a super ride.”