Barry Geraghty this evening reflected on his busman’s holiday to Saratoga on Thursday, having partnered the Gordon Elliott trained Dirar to finish second in the New York Writers Club Chase.

Geraghty, who had just partnered The Bull Hayes to win the 7.10 race at Killarney, said “I arrived back to Dublin at 10am and took a punt by coming here (Killarney) instead of going North (Down Royal).”

He added “Dirar had a great run in Saratoga, travelled well in the race and while he looked a winner late-on, the winner swept past him. It was a good effort and he won €20,000 in prize-money. Nine horses ran, the ground was quick and most of the jockeys were Irish!”

“My brother Ross rode in the race and Brian Crowley rode the favourite. The lads riding over jumps over there probably don’t get the credit they deserve and there was no quarter given!”

“Dirar (stabled one hour north of New York) should improve a lot for his run and if things work out the next day he runs, I’d love to ride him again. It was a great experience and an excellent opportunity to see a part of America.”

Thomas Weekes