McDonogh deserves his Black Label win

Short-headed half-an-hour earlier on Bomber Jackson Declan McDonogh, also third twice on this eight race programme, ended the night on the right note at Dundalk when bringing home Black Label in front in split two of the Crowne Plaza Leading Jockey & Trainer Championship Handicap.

McDonogh donned the familiar Cockney Lad Daly silks on top-weight Black Label, and Ado McGuinness' charge was much too strong for his rivals inside the final furlong, beating Gold Not Silver by three and a half lengths.

"He's not a bad horse and he (handicapper) gave him a chance by dropping him back into that grade," said McGuinness.

"We'll tip away but he will get a break at some stage. He'll be more of a spring horse.

"He's been a great servant. He's not that old and will go over fences next season. We'll go summer jumping and mix it with him.

"We probably will try a better race down here in a couple of weeks time."

(GC & EM)