Son Of Westerner Remains Unbeaten For New Connections

Howdyalikemenow (5g Westerner - Jopa, by Beneficial) made it two from two for the Evan Williams stable when justifying favouritism in the Novices’ Hurdle at Fakenham.

A close second in a maiden hurdle on his final start for Declan Queally, the son of Westerner ran out an impressive 14 length winner on his stable debut earlier this month. Reunited with Adam Wedge on Thursday, he was ridden from two out and dug deep to regain the advantage after the final flight. Keeping on well, he scored by a length and three quarters, as the front pair drew clear of the field.

Owned by Vale Racing, Howdyalikemenow was bred by Anthony Murphy.

Westerner also enjoyed a successful weekend between the flags, with Susie Miller (5m Westerner - Definite Miller, by Definite Article) completing a double for the Castlehyde Stud sire in the Mares’ Maiden at Umma House.

Trained by Sam Curling for Ann Cahalan, she had finished a close second in a similar contest in April and produced the necessary improved to land Sunday’s contest by four lengths under Derek O’Connor. Bred by Robert Hodgins, Susie Miller is a full-sister to eight-time winner Western Miller (Westerner).

At Portrush the previous day, Justwest (6m Westerner - Justfour, by Beneficial) gained a maiden victory for owners Edward and Patrick Kearns. Trained by Gary McGill and ridden by Oran McGill, she took the mares’ maiden by two and a half lengths. The improving daughter of Westerner was bred by Colm McHenry.