There's a Storm Rising for Hogan in Galway

Denis Hogan saddled no less than six horses in the Easyfix Handicap Hurdle at Galway and enjoyed a first and third courtesy of Storm Rising and Golden Poet

The trainer/jockey was on board Golden Poet who looked to have every chance once he collared Shake The Bucket jumping the last.

However, Barry Geraghty and Storm Rising loomed large on the outer and they finished off best of all on the run-in to win by a neck at 10/1.

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The gambled-on Kellyiscool stayed on well to chase the winner home in second at 8/1 having been backed from 25/1 during the day.

Golden Poet (14/1) dropped to third in the closing stages with the game Shake The Bucket completing the placings in fourth at 10/1.

Denis Hogan said: “There was very little between three or four of them. I ended up in front at the back of the second-last and Barry got a tow all the way up and obviously gave him a good ride.

“Ciaran O’Toole rang yesterday morning to say he was available and you have to use him.

“I have a big string at the minute and it’s getting bigger. I’m just looking to get a better calibre of horse and hopefully step up a notch. All you can do is keep chipping away and working hard.

“I’m lucky that I have great staff and great owners plus my parents behind me.”

Barry Geraghty said: "Denis had him in great shape and it's always nice to have a winner in Galway.

"On his form I thought he had a good chance. Denis was very sweet on him so good call!"

Owner Kevin McConnell added: "Denis threw a few darts at it and you just didn't know what to expect. Barry gave him some ride, brilliant jockey.

"We turned in at the bottom of the hill and we thought a place was on the cards but he battled and battled unreal. He has been a brilliant horse for us. We bought him for handy money and are delighted how it has gone.

"We all want to win in Galway so we will be here for the week now!"

Additional reporting by Alan Magee