McDonogh is home and the punters are pleased

After doubles at Dundalk for Pat Smullen and Wayne Lordan earlier, Declan McDonogh managed a brace of his own on his return to Irish action. The former champion brought up the two-timer on Nimitz in the concluding Kentucky Derby Qualifier at Dundalk March 2nd Handicap.

Backed into 9/4 from 11/4 on track, and bigger earlier, Nimitz sent many a punter home happy with a smooth performance.

Nimitz arrived with his challenge going well in the straight. He had to work in the end, as likeable top-weight Carried pushed him to within three parts of a length.

On debut for Jimmy Finn, Thomas O'Malley was a strong finishing third, a length and a half back.

McDonogh's earlier win came for Darren Bunyan on Clebourne

"I always liked him and he had some good runs. Since I rode him last he's filled out and strengthened up. I'd say that's the key," explained McDonogh.

"I probably got there a bit early but I thought Pat's (Smullen's Carried) would lead me there a little bit longer. Now that he's got the winning bug he might just win a couple more on the grass in the summer."

(AM & EM)