Good result for McManus/O'Briens in National Always up there in the pace-setting role, King Leon (Mark Walsh) led home a one two for Aidan and Joseph O'Brien in the McHale Mayo National Handicap Chase as owner of the first two, J P McManus, completed a big race double at Ballinrobe. Course winning King Leon (10s into 17/2) led home by the Barry Geraghty-ridden Carriganog (5/1 joint favourite) at a distance of a length and a half. McManus had earlier seen his colours carried to victory by Geraghty on the Charles Byrnes-trained Shanpallas in the McHale Coranna Handicap Hurdle. McManus' racing manager Frank Berry said afterwards: "It was nice to relax as they were coming down to the last anyway! "The winner jumped great and Mark gave him a great ride. It is a lovely race to win and all credit to Ballinrobe for putting on two lovely pots today. "The track is in great order. We will try and find a similar race for both of them now." K.C. Sexton, rider of Rohan's Pride trained by Peter Fahey, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount was pulled up having jumped poorly and lost his action. (DM & EM)
