Whatever returns to form for Madden family

Niall Madden senior and junior, or “boots” and “slippers” as they are more commonly known as, teamed up to take the Kilbeggan Handicap Hurdle with Whatever It Takes

The topweight in this 80-102 rated three-mile event returned to form following a few disappointing efforts of late, and was produced from off the pace to lead just after the last.

The J P McManus-owned 12/1 chance, now the winner of eight races divided evenly between hurdles and the flat, kept on well on the run-in to beat Oisin James by two and a half lengths. The Rite Article was prominent throughout and eventually finished a further five and a half lengths adrift in third.

Niall Madden senior said, “He has ability but doesn’t always show it. I was hoping he’d run well, and the handicapper gave him a chance to run in a lower grade.

“He’s been a good old money-spinner, and will continue to mix it between hurdles and the flat.”