Hat-trick for Maudlin and front-runners

Maudlin Magdalen made it three-from-three for front-runners tonight at Killarney and bagged a hat-trick herself as she made all to land the Colin Counihan Tarmac Handicap.

Ben Curtis gave the Dylan Thomas filly a fine judged ride as she proved too strong for her rivals in the extended mile handicap.

Donal Kinsella's charge was asked for an effort over two furlongs out as Cairdiuil tried to give chase.

The 5/1 shot stuck on well in the closing stages, despite swishing her tail, to record a length-and-a-half success.

It was a third win in the space of ten days for Maudlin Magdalen adding to victories at Dundalk and Bellewstown.

“All I can say is that I have a nice filly. She surprises me every time she does it,” said Kinsella.

“We were fed up holding on to her so let her go on and since we let her go on she's improved 25lb. She'll probably get another 5 or 6lb for that and might go to the Curragh next.

“Unfortunately I didn't catch Ladbrokes as I didn't have enough confidence to back her!” Target Acquired was sent off the 7/2 favourite but after chasing the winner early couldn't pick up in the straight and finished fifth.

Later the stewards received a report regarding an incident involving two staff from Kinsella's yard. The matter was referred on and the following is the official report:-

The Stewards received a report from Mr Chris Gordon, Head of Turf Club Security, in relation to an incident in the stable yard. Evidence was heard from Mr Gordon, Mr Frank Clune, Turf Club Security and Mr Michael O’Connor, Killarney Racecourse employee.

Ms Maria O’Brien, Authorised Representative for Mr Donal Kinsella, trainer and Mr Aidan Wall, box driver for Mr Kinsella were requested to attend the enquiry but declined to do so.

Having considered the evidence and in the circumstances of Ms O’Brien and Mr Wall declining to attend the enquiry the Stewards referred the matter to the CEO of The Turf Club for further investigation.

(Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes)