Monbeg shows her quality The Willie Mullins-trained Monbeg Rose produced a fine front-running performance to run out a cosy winner of the Gift Horse Gallery (Mares) Maiden Hurdle at Thurles. Bryan Cooper popped out in front on the Beneficial mare and she jumped well at the head of affairs. 11/8 favourite Myztique tried to launch a challenge at the second last but the eventual 3/1 winner quickened up smartly when pressed and went on for a three-and-a-half length success. The Gigginstown-owned mare had proved a disappointment on her only previous 'track' start when well beaten in a Tipperary bumper back in May having been sent off even-money favourite. She had previously won a point-to-point for Donnchadh Doyle. "It looked an ordinary race but she settled well in front. Hopefully she can get black-type in time,” said Eddie O'Leary afterwards. (Quotes by Thomas Weekes)
