Fairyhouse double for McDonogh

Declan McDonogh completed a front-running double at Fairyhouse today as the former Champion Jockey guided top weight Lord Dudley to an easy win in the Visit Meath For Your Staycation Handicap.

The son of Pride Of Dubai was fractionally tardy leaving the stalls but was soon in front and comfortably beat 13 rivals.

Afterwards winning trainer Kieran Cotter reported “we thought he had improved coming here and we were looking for a good performance.

“We were slightly worried that the ground was a bit drier than we thought he’d want and Declan confirmed that but he put in a very good performance and he has improved.

“He’s learning about racing and after that I’d imagine he’ll stick to six.

“There are a few options open and we’ll see what mark he gets. We are in no rush and he’ll be a better horse next year.

“He’s in again here on Sunday but he would need rain.”

McDonogh was successful half an hour earlier on the Joseph O'Brien trained newcomer Pennine Hills which made all for an impressive maiden win.

Quotes from Alan Magee