Macgiloney and Denis Hogan jump the last © Photo Healy Racing
The Guinness 0.0% Handicap Hurdle produced just about the best finish of the week so far as the topweight Macgiloney (16/1) got up in the final stride under rider/trainer Denis Hogan.
The 3/1 favourite Blackstair Rocco slipped a few lengths clear on the home turn and a good jump at the last looked to have sealed victory as he was holding the challenge of eventual fourth Hewick (11/1).
The picture changed in the final hundred yards, however, as both the winner and Mindsmadeup started to eat into the market leader’s advantage and, at the line, it was Macgiloney who prevailed by a head from Blackstair Rocco with Mindsmadeup just a further short head back in third.
It was a fourth win over hurdles, and an eighth in total, for the 8-year-old by Milan.
“My stick went flying between the last and the line and he's a horse that needs a bit of persuasion.
“He lacks a gear but makes up for it with heart, I love the horse.
“It's great to get the winner as it's been a tough day for all of us in the yard, and Low Sun s owners, after we lost him earlier in the beginners chase.
“I hadn't been riding much when the ground got quick in May and this lad was my first ride back in Tipperary. I was second on him (behind Fairyhill Run) and I thought he could be a winner for Galway.
“I didn't sleep well the last few nights doubting myself about claiming off him because he had top weight.
“I said I'd wait and see who was riding Willie's horse (Captain Kangaroo) and when Sean O'Keeffe went down on him I said 'right I'll take a chance and ride him myself'.
“The boys gave me good confidence to ride him. It's not my number one job anymore but it's where I get my kicks.
“I'm not going to be riding yokes in beginners’ chases or novice chases or any dodgy leapers but we'll keep ticking away like that.”
Quotes from Gary Carson
