TWO CRACKING SEMI FINALS OF THE WATERFORD SELECT STAKES

Barry Drake

ONE TIME ONLY and SKYWALKER BARRY both clocked identical times of 28.44 in the semi-finals of the 2022 Waterford Select Stakes at Kilcohan Park on Saturday night.

Defending champion Skywalker Barry was the first to oblige when winning the opening semi-final for trainer Michael O'Donovan and owner Ray Patterson.

Lisnakill Vernon was quickest into stride, but the 2-1 winner turned on the pace before taking up the running early in the back straight. From there, the classy tracker was always in control and he pulled out all the stops to beat Lisnakill Vernon, by two and a half lengths. Hot favourite Singalong Sally three lengths back in third. 

ALL THE WAY FOR ONE TIME ONLY

In the second semi-final, One Time Only delivered a superb performance to win for trainer Thomas O'Donovan and owners Paul Horig and John Woodford.

Sent to traps at odds of 8-1, the winner bolted from traps and the Laurels champion set a strong early pace. Explosive Boy was within a length at the second last corner, but the one in front stuck to his task well. In an exciting finish, One Time Only got the better of Explosive Boy, by half a length. Four lengths back to Minor Droopy in third place.