Hadman a winner now and improving with experience It was Joseph first, Donnacha second and Aidan fourth as the O’Briens dominated the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Maiden at Gowran. Hadman (5/2) led them home under Dylan Browne McMonagle. Ger Lyons could have trumped them all in another stride or two as his newcomer Once Upon A River (9/4) finished well on the outer, to be beaten just a head and a short head into third. The chestnut would have gotten there had he not edged to his left. However Hadman and Unconquerable put their experience to good use on the front end, with the former just doing enough. “He’s a tough horse and Dylan said he was actually waiting for a bit of company,” said Piltown representative Brendan Powell. “He was chopping and changing his legs a bit and it was the first time he was around a bend. “He stays well, he’s tough and hardy. He’s had two runs but Dylan feels he’ll improve again from it. He still looks a big baby.” The Stewards interviewed D. McMonagle, rider of Hadman, concerning the fact that he appeared to move across before reaching the marker poles. Evidence was heard from the rider concerned who stated that he was eager to get across and fill the space as there was nobody on his inner. Having viewed the recording of the race and considered the evidence from the rider, the Stewards were satisfied that D. McMonagle was in breach of Rule 211(a) and having considered his record in this regard the Stewards suspended D. McMonagle for one raceday. The Stewards interviewed C.T. Keane, rider of Once Upon A River, concerning the fact that he appeared to move across before reaching the marker poles. Evidence was heard from the rider concerned, who stated that his mount was having its first run and followed the horse in front of him across the track of its own accord. Having viewed the recording of the race and considered the evidence from the rider, the Stewards gave C. T. Keane the benefit of the doubt on this occasion and they took no further action. (AM & EM)
