Point-to-point ace returns to saddle at Punchestown

Former champion point-to-point rider Derek O’Connor is set to return to race riding this weekend.

O’Connor has not been seen since fracturing his elbow in a fall at home in October, but he is in line to return on the John Kiely-trained Line Out in the concluding bumper at Punchestown on Sunday.

“I fractured my elbow when I got a fall off a young horse at home a couple of months ago and I fell on the concrete,” O’Connor said.

“I've been riding out lately and everything feels good. Dr Adrian McGoldrick is happy with how it's healed and I can’t wait to return.

“It will be nice to ride for the Lillingston family and it’s a very special day for them, as they're also sponsoring the beginners’ chase on the card in memory of the late Alan Lillingston.”