'Jumping is the name of the game' is an over-used phrase in National Hunt racing, but it was proven once again when Monty's Pass landed the featured #35,000 Denny Gold Medal Handicap Chase.
Galway Plate runner-up Quinze was sent off the heavily backed 6/4 favourite. However the Pat Hughes-trained topweight made a serious of blunders, notably at the second last where he was headed by Monty's Pass. Barry Geraghty's mount quickly settled the issue, going on to score by three lengths.
'He's always promised to win a big one', said a delighted winning trainer Jimmy Mangan. The popular Cork handler added, 'He needs a good gallop, and the pace suited him today. He will probably go now for the Kerry National at Listowel'.
Young American overcame an eight month lay-off to take the Denny Havasnack (Q.R.) Race. The J P McManus-owned gelding was produced from off the pace by Alan Crowe, heading Wild Romance just inside the final furlong to win by half a length.
'He's had a few little problems, and needed time', said trainer Christy Roche. Listowel could also be on the agenda for the winner, who 'stays well' according to his in-form Curragh trainer.
Kevin O'Brien had a day to remember when saddling a 103/1 mixed double with Putsometnby and Northfields Dancer. Putsometnby responded to a strong ride by Garrett Cotter in the straight of the opening Spectra Photo Labs Maiden Hurdle, holding on by a length and a half from Quiet Millfit.
O'Brien, who has held a licence for three years and has a mixed team of 15 in training, completed his first ever double when Northfields Dancer took the Kerryman Ltd, Australian Jockey Club Handicap in fine style. The foormer Richard Hannon-trained colt was always prominent, and drew clear off the home turn under John Murtagh to beat Helen Bach by three and a half lengths.
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