Manomine bags third win this month

Punchestown Charity Race winner Manomine continues in excellent form and today gained a third win this month when landing the Adare Manor Opportunity Handicap Hurdle at Downpatrick for Keith Watson.

The ten year old son of Manduro caused a 33/1 surprise in winning the Charity Race at Punchestown on May 10 and having followed up with a hurdles win at Tramore four days later, today bagged his third success this month when beating Balgowlah under winning jockey Daragh O'Keeffe.

Afterwards the winning trainer's son and assistant Marshall Watson said "we knew he liked it around here and it is horses for courses especially around here - I think this owner (Jimmy Matthews) would nearly buy a house in Downpatrick!

"It was quite a big surprise (that he jumped well). This is why it has taken us so long to come hurdling because his jumping has been awful. His maiden hurdle and all he was absolutely appalling.

"He was different class today and he seems to be enjoying himself. Whatever Kate Kelly did in that Punchestown charity race, we have to thank her!

"Maybe in a better quality race he could settle in. He just has a big long stride and he just seems to be enjoying himself (out in front)."

Quotes by Michael Graham