Daniel King rides first winner on Malbas

Daniel King rode his first winner as Malbas (9/1) landed the BoyleSports Now Hiring Nationwide Handicap.

The Denis Hogan-trained 5-year-old, a winner at Tipperary in June, came from well off the pace to join issue with Prime Chief in the final quarter mile and responded well to King’s urgings to get the better of a good tussle with that rival.

Half a length separated them at the line with the season’s leading apprentice Dylan Browne McMonagle having to settle for second place on this occasion.

A gentleman on the hurdle track, seemingly in high spirits and dressed in a bridal outfit, joined the contest at the furlong marker and ran alongside the finishers (thankfully separated from them by the running rail) but weakened tamely and may want dropping back in trip!

A delighted Daniel King, younger brother of former leading apprentice Connor King, remarked: "This is brilliant, I can't believe it and can't thank Denis and the owners enough for putting me up.

"I'm 16, from Kilbrin, Co. Cork and am Connor's (King) brother. I'm in fifth year in school and ride out for Denis on weekends and holidays.

"The race couldn't have gone any better and we're delighted to get his head in front again.

"I am tall and will probably be going over jumps in the future but am looking to get experience on the flat for the summer."

Quotes from Thomas Weekes