Irish apprentices scored a notable victory at San Rossore, Pisa on Saturday 17^th October when finishing first and second in the European Association of Racing Schools Apprentice Handicap race, thus claiming the team trophy for the second time in four years.

Leigh Roche (apprenticed to Dermot Weld) won the 10f race in fine style aboard Leccarda for local trainer Valfredo Valiani, swooping late to edge out Conor Hoban (attached to Michael Halford) on stable mate Baragan in an exciting finish.

Both Irish apprentices graduated from RACE in 2008 and were selected to represent their country in this annual race organized by the European Association of Racing Schools (EARS). They were competing against riders from France, UK, Germany and Italy in a team race that is confined to those who have ridden less than 20 winners.

EARS works to promote the benefits of investment in training and education for people in the European racing industry and to encourage exchanges of good practice. Participating apprentices had the opportunity to ride out with their assigned trainer on two mornings and gain an insight into methods and practice in another country while sharing experiences with apprentices from other racing nations. The two Irish riders were fortunate to spend time with leading trainer Valiani, famous in Italy as the handler of Electrocutionist before his sale to Godolphin.

Nora Looby, who graduated from RACE in 2005 and is now based in the north of England, rode for the UK in the race and was sixth on La Data Di Giulio. In a further coincidence, the race was sponsored by the Florida Thoroughbred Breeders & Owners Association who were central to the signing of a twinning agreement between Ocala and Newbridge last February and who have been working to develop further links between the bloodstock industries of Florida and Kildare. As part of the prize, the winning rider will be offered a subsidized work experience placement in Ocala over the winter.

Leigh Roche on Leccarda just gets up to pip Conor Hoban on Baragan (both trained by Valfredo Valiani) on the line and complete an Irish one-two in the Premio European Association of Racing Schools Handicap at Pisa

The Irish team of Leigh Roche and Conor Hoban, along with RACE Director Keith Rowe, are presented with the EARS trophy by Rory McDonald, Chief Executive of the British Racing School and current EARS Chairman