Kevin Manning was the rider in form at a well-attended Sligo yesterday when partnering a 21 1/2 to 1 double aboard Mr Mister and Lions Den.
Lions Den provided Jim Gorman with a welcome boost when leading early in the straight for a three quarters of a length victory from Imperial Eye in the Sligo Dairies Handicap. The Curragh trainer was taken to Mallow hospital on Saturday complaining of chest pains, and was at home yesterday recuperating.
Manning initiated his brace when Mr Mister made all in the John Perry Maiden, staying on gamely under pressure to beat Zeno by a length and a half.
'He's not as good as his half-sister, High Society, but the better ground was a help, and he'll go now for a handicap', said trainer Eddie Lynam.
High Society, successful on her debut in a Leopardstown juvenile maiden last month, has been sold but remains in Lynam's yard, and heads next for a Listed race.
Timmy Murphy has made a number of successful weekend visits from Britain this year, and the Powers Irish Grand National winning rider was again on the mark when the front-running Jackie C kept on tenaciously to beat Dajazar by a length and a half in the EBF Maiden Hurdle.
'He jumps and stays well, and may go next for a novice chase', said winning trainer Peter McCreery.
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