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John O'Riordan

John O'Riordan

Leinster overcomes greenness to strike at second time of asking

Fri 31st May 2024, 20:53

Leinster and Dylan Browne McMonagle. Leinster and Dylan Browne McMonagle.
© Photo Healy Racing

Having shown definite promise when eighth in a big field Curragh maiden last year, the Joseph O'Brien trained Leinster took a major step forward to win the concluding BoyleXtra Rewards In Shop Maiden at Down Royal.

Sent off 5/4f to strike at the second attempt, the Camelot colt got the job done despite still shows signs of immaturity.

Travelling well on the heels of the leaders three furlongs out, jockey Dylan Browne McMonagle brought the O'Brien trained colt with a sweeping run around the outside to lead into the straight.

Running green under pressure when asked to go and win his race, Leinster eventually picked up inside the final furlong to go clear by three-and-a-quarter lengths.

Dylan Browne McMonagle said: "We went along lovely and he travelled around sweet for me.

"He would have learned a lot today. Once I got him out and got a bit of daylight, he took me down over the road good.

"I knew I had plenty of horse left and I didn't want to break his momentum. I was there plenty soon and he did roll around when I got to the front, but he got to the line well.

"He'll have no problem stepping up in trip, he's a nice type."

Additional reporting my Michael Graham.

1st
5/4Fav
Tote €2.30 €1.50
2nd
3.25L
14/1
€4.10
3rd
shd
12/1
€3.50
4th
3.25L
16/1
About John O'Riordan
John has worked for the Press Association since 2022. He also writes a weekly column for The Irish Field and is a regular contributor to the Irish Racing Yearbook. He has previously written for the Racing Post, Irish Examiner and Irish Daily Mirror. He has been involved in racing for over three decades; having experience as a syndicate member, sole owner and breeder.