Name: Holly Dunne
Age: 21
From: Portlaoise, Co. Laois
It was a red-letter day for 21-year-old Holly Dunne at Tinahely earlier this month when winning aboard the Benjamin Halsall trained Plan Of Attack.
How did you get involved with horses?
I started going to a riding school when I was five-years-old. From the age of eight years, I wanted to get involved in racing.
Where are you working full-time?
I work full-time with Ben Halsall for the past two years.
How did you end up working in Ben Halsall’s yard?
Ben had a job vacancy and I applied when I saw it advertised. It's about a 20-minute drive from me at home.
I started going there part-time while I was still in school and have been going there ever since. I am very grateful for the opportunity he has given me.
When did you find out that you were riding Plan Of Attack?
Plan Of Attack came from Henry de Bromhead’s yard. I knew once I got my license that I would be riding him in point to points for Ben.
Plan Of Attack had a good run last time out, did you expect him to run well again?
The last time I rode him, I was getting him to settle more. This time I knew we had a great chance after his previous run, so I was more confident. I've learned a lot from him.
Did you get some kick out of riding your first winner?
Yes, I really did. I'm still buzzing from it.
Were any of your family there on the day?
All my family were there. I’m not from a horsey background but my family are starting to understand the game and they love it.
Do you know what the plan for Plan Of Attack is now?
We will take it week by week. He will stay point to pointing but he may go for a hunters chase before the end of the season.
What are your ambitions for the remainder of the season?
To ride more winners and try to get rides from different trainers. Hopefully, this win will give me more opportunities in ladies races.
Do you ride out for anyone else other than Ben?
No, not now, but I am looking for afternoon work.
Was it always your plan to take out your licence?
Yes, I always wanted to ride in point to points from a young age.
Who has been your biggest influence in racing?
Rachael Blackmore without a doubt. She’s paved the way for lady riders.
Have you any interests outside of racing?
No, all my focus is on point to pointing at the moment.
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— p2p.ie (@irishp2p) February 29, 2024
It was a red-letter day for 21-year-old Holly Dunne at Tinahely earlier this month when winning aboard the Benjamin Halsall-trained Plan Of Attack.
%uD83D%uDC49To find out more about Holly click here https://t.co/LoLDtqtpzR pic.twitter.com/Uz3LH5aAWG
