Captainofthefleet gained an overdue win in the concluding maiden at Limerick, and also completed a terrific treble for Kevin Prendergast, but had to work hard to do so.
The strongly backed 2/5 favourite travelled sweetly into contention turning for home but was all out in the final furlong. Murindo and Humiliation both threw down strong challenges and Declan McDonogh struggled to keep the eventual winner straight.
He hampered both Gold Mirage and Humiliation as he drifted left under pressure, but found enough in the closing stages to record a head success. Hired Hand finished best of all to get up for second in a tight finish.
"He was very keen early on as they didn't go a great pace," said McDonogh afterwards.
"I'd say he was a bit fresh as he hasn't run in a good while."
There was a sting in the tail for McDonogh, who picked up a day ban for careless riding.
