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Donal Murphy

Donal Murphy

Paddy proves hard to Catch in Dundalk feature

Fri 6th Dec 2024, 18:25

Catch The Paddy (check cap) leads home his rivals under Rory MulliganCatch The Paddy (check cap) leads home his rivals under Rory Mulligan
© Photo Healy Racing

Trained in Co. Tyrone by Pat McKenna, Catch The Paddy made virtually all in the feature Dundalk Stadium Gift Vouchers Available Online Handicap.

A three-time winner in the UK when in the care of Kevin Ryan, the No Nay Never bay was bought by current connections for just 3,500 guineas at the Tattersalls Autumn Horses In Training Sale.

Starting off for McKenna and his son Emmet (co-owner) this evening, the 84-rated victor was available at 33/1 in early shows for this mile contest, eventually going off a 16/1 chance.

Soon in front under Rory Mulligan, he had all his rivals off the bridle with less than two-furlongs to go, keeping on well when ridden inside the final 200 yards, coming home two-lengths to the good.

One of two Adrian McGuinness-trained representatives, the easy to back Exquisite Acclaim (8/1 from 10/3 early) finished second under Jamie Powell, while 7/4 favourite Hightimeyouwon could only manage fourth.

"He did that nicely. It was a hot enough looking little race today and he did it well," Mulligan remarked.

"A nice little buy out of England, lovely for that money.

"He kept finding the whole way to the line, he's nice.

"Yes, looks to be (scope with him in Ireland) once he doesn't get too badly done (by the handicapper) after tonight. He looks like he might have another one in him."

STEWARDS REPORT

The Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board Veterinary Officer examined Blues Emperor trained by J.P. Murtagh, at the request of the Raceday Stewards and reported the animal to be post race normal.

Additional reporting by Michael Graham

About Donal Murphy
Donal graduated from Maynooth University in 2010 with a BBS in Equine Business and since attained a diploma in Sports Journalism from Dublin Business School. He holds a variety of roles in the horse racing industry, reporting for the Press Association and p2p.ie, while also working for SIS and the Tote. From Wexford, he is a keen runner and has completed over 100 parkruns at various locations around the country.