Ballydoyle work-rider and Irish Grand National winning jockey Ben Dalton was on the mark in the Irish Thoroughbred Breeders Association (Northern Region) Handicap Hurdle at Downpatrick today, on the Des McDonogh trained Maighnealta

Dalton, whose last winner came last October, held Maighnealta in mid-division before making ground in the dip, eventually staying on well to edge past Clonleney close home, for a length win.

Afterwards McDonagh stated "his last two runs were good but I was hoping he'd handle the track. He didn't the last time but he wasn't right but is a fine horse, a grand horse.

"Herself [his wife Helen, winning owner in partnership with trainer Jim Bolger] had her hip replaced and wanted to come but she'll have enjoyed it on TV!

"He'll get a bit further and will make a nice chaser, he's 17 hands."

By Tom Weekes, quotes from Michael Graham