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Alan Magee

Alan Magee

Whatever returns to form for Madden family

Sun 5th Jun 2016, 18:24

Whatever It Takes (Niall Madden) beating Oisin James at KilbegganWhatever It Takes (Niall Madden) beating Oisin James at Kilbeggan
© Photo Healy Racing

Niall Madden senior and junior, or “boots” and “slippers” as they are more commonly known as, teamed up to take the Kilbeggan Handicap Hurdle with Whatever It Takes

The topweight in this 80-102 rated three-mile event returned to form following a few disappointing efforts of late, and was produced from off the pace to lead just after the last.

The J P McManus-owned 12/1 chance, now the winner of eight races divided evenly between hurdles and the flat, kept on well on the run-in to beat Oisin James by two and a half lengths. The Rite Article was prominent throughout and eventually finished a further five and a half lengths adrift in third.

Niall Madden senior said, “He has ability but doesn’t always show it. I was hoping he’d run well, and the handicapper gave him a chance to run in a lower grade.

“He’s been a good old money-spinner, and will continue to mix it between hurdles and the flat.”

About Alan Magee
Alan has worked in the racing industry for well over 30 years including with the Sporting Life, Turform and Irish Racing Services. He took up his current role as Irish Racing Team Leader with the Press Association in 2013. He has a keen interest in most sports and plays golf.