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Alan Magee

Alan Magee

McNamaras strike with new acquisition

Sat 8th Jun 2024, 17:09

Gaelic Des Chastys (nearside) and Conor McNamaraGaelic Des Chastys (nearside) and Conor McNamara
© Photo Healy Racing

The father and son team of Eric and Conor McNamara successfully teamed up with Gaelic Des Chastys in division one of the Ladbrokes Play ‘1-2-Free’ On Football Handicap Hurdle at Punchestown.

The eight-year-old has joined the Rathkeale trainer this year from Alan Donoghue and was opening his account at the 20th attempt.

The 10/1 chance was kept wide by Conor McNamara in the straight and, following a protracted battle with Del Girl just got the better of that rival by a short-head.

The 7/2 favourite Warmer Days Ahead kept on one paced a length and a quarter back in third with The Virginian completing the places in fourth.

Eric McNamara said, “He’s a new horse to the yard and has been doing everything really nicely since we got him.

“I think the secret to him is a bit of nice ground. He’s a real good actioned horse and I’d like to think there is a bit of improvement in him.

“He can be very keen amongst horses and we decided to go wide with him. That was the plan and it worked. Conor gave him a good ride.

“He’s a nice addition to the yard and I’d like to think he can win another one.”

About Alan Magee
Alan has worked in the racing industry for well over 30 years including with the Sporting Life, Turform and Irish Racing Services. He took up his current role as Irish Racing Team Leader with the Press Association in 2013. He has a keen interest in most sports and plays golf.