Soaring Monarch (purple, pink cap) is ready to pounce © Photo Healy Racing
Peter Fahey completed a notable double for owner Basil Holian when Soaring Monarch (6/1) landed the Rockshore Handicap.
Declan McDonogh 's mount was never far from the pace and came through to head eventual fourth Cosmic Vega in the final furlong. The five-year-old, fitted with headgear for the first time, kept on well to account for Big Baby Bull by a length with Onlyhuman another neck away in third.
It was a third career success for the Free Eagle gelding.
Fahey had won the Grade 3 novice chase with Visionarian for the same connectiions in the previous contest.
“It couldn't have worked out any better. He's a horse that always runs a good race and last year the ground was just too quick for him and he didn't perform,” said Fahey.
“I think he's a horse that will improve from that and he could end up getting into some of the nicer premier handicaps as the year goes on.
“That's as quick as he wants the ground and as the ground gets slower later in the year you'll see a better horse.
“Declan gave him a great ride, he was very strong on him at the end.
“A double is unbelievable and to get it for Basil as well makes it even more special.
“I have to thank the lads in the yard as well who put in so much hard work.”
Quotes from Gary Carson
