Donal Murphy
Madden back amongst the winners on Princess Rajj
Princess Rajj comes home a clear cut winner under Tom Madden
© Photo Healy Racing
Tom Madden recorded his first success since returning from injury, as he guided Princess Rajj to a comfortable win in the Lough Gill Handicap.
Second on two of her last four starts, the Jessica Harrington trained victor was sent off the 3/1 favourite, fitted with a tongue-strap for the first time.
Pushed along from the stalls, the Rajj bay soon led and was ridden to extend her advantage from the furlong pole, keeping on strongly to score by six lengths. Pandemic Princess (10/3) finished second under Jake Coen for Richard O'Brien, while Three Macks (12/1) was a further two lengths away in third, with Ronan Whelan aboard this one for Andy Oliver.
"She showed a bit of pace here today but she’d probably stay up to a mile," said Madden.
"She’s a straightforward filly, hardy and genuine.
"It's great to get that first winner after the injury (sustained at Gowran last August and had last winner in June). I'd like to say a big thanks to the Santry (sports injury) Clinic, Wayne Middleton, Dr Jennifer Pugh and also to Mrs Harrington and the team at home. Hopefully that winner will get me going again."
Additional reporting by Mark Nunan