AN excellent Downpatrick season for John McConnell continued as Ally Cay, who was providing the trainer with his sixth winner at the track this term, continued her pleasing progression over hurdles in the Bar One Racing Rated Novice Hurdle over just short of two and three quarter miles.

As she looked to make it two wins from four starts over hurdles this five-year-old posted a commanding effort under Jack Gilligan who was having his first ride for the trainer. Ally Cay left her rivals toiling in vain over the last quarter of a mile as she stormed into a commanding lead which saw her finish 11 lengths clear of the favourite Mars Harper.