Kernan’s Equestrian Centre proved a happy hunting ground for John Floody as he dominated the Connolly’s Red Mills Spring Tour on Sunday when accounting for three of the top placings. Floody rode to victory aboard Ballyknock Diamond and is now seven points behind league leader Liam O’Meara with five rounds left.

Owned by Francis Hughes, Ballyknock Diamond is an eight-year-old gelding by Jacomar out of Ballinlock. The sire of the dam, Touchdown, was bred by the Kernans and reached the highest level under James. Ballyknock Diamond has been successfully produced by Floody from a six-year-old.

Floody said: “I am delighted for Francis [Hughes]. He is a horse with a lot of scope and a big future. He will be going for approval this year. Likewise Kings Best was on top form but just not fast enough today. I am very lucky to have very good owners and sponsors in Darragh Equestrian. Kernan’s has always proved lucky for me and today it all went my way.”

Just 20 combinations took on the Alistair Megahey-designed course, which saw five proceed to the timed round. With three in the jump-off, Floody maximised his chances in the Glencarron Nursing Home-sponsored class.

Going first with Brian Kernan’s nine-year-old Rhyne Clover-sired stallion HTS BlackRock, Floody crossed the line carrying four faults in 34.74 seconds for fourth place.

Kilkenny native Vincent Byrne set the target with Caugherty in 36.86. April McCrea and Bob had four faults in 38.08 which would see them finish behind HTS Blackrock in fifth.

Returning with Ballyknock Diamond, Floody posted 32.16 to take the win, along with the leading young horse prize. Floody returned with Kieran King’s 13-year-old gelding King’s Best and recorded another clear in 36.48 to claim the runner-up spot.

Accounting for sixth place was Amy O’Rourke and Toscana (69.98). In seventh place, also on four faults, was Owen McCamley and Belle De Rev Z in 73.27, ahead of John McLaughlin riding Lincourt Lux, with four faults in 73.52.