'Magical' first Galway win for local man Loughnane

From the nearby village of Monivea, but based in the UK, David Loughnane enjoyed a 'magical' first win at Ballybrit, as his It'sneverjustone claimed the Clayton Hotel Galway Handicap.

Making the breakthrough on his eighth start at Ffos Las last month, the successful son of Massaat was sent off an easy-to-back 12/1 chance (from 7s early) this evening.

Settled in mid-division on the outer by Declan McDonogh, the 77-rated bay was pushed along and made good progress approaching the straight, soon improving into a share of the lead.

Ridden into a narrow lead with a furlong to go, he kept on well and extended his advantage in the closing stages, ultimately coming home a length-and three-quarters to the good in the colours of Ian O'Connor & The Fox and Hounds.

Second at Gowran on Saturday, Nyman (11/1) again had to settle for the runner-up berth, while Highbury See See (4/1) was another half-a-length away in third.

Returned the 11/4 favourite (from 5s), Aviatrice faded in the straight and finished seventh.

"It was tough from the draw but they went hard and I was able to get in. I was three wide but I had cover and he relaxed. I was always comfortable and when I gave him the office he came forward nicely," McDonogh reflected.

"It's soft Flat ground and he loved it. He is a fine, big, strong horse and won nicely. I hope he is in again during the week!

"I've had two rides for David and two winners. He is an up and coming young trainer, so it's good.

"It's an unforgiving place and you could be on your backside tomorrow evening, so it's nice to get one early."

Speaking on RTE, Loughnane added: "You won't get as much off of me after the race as you did beforehand. It'll take a while for this one to sink in. It's magical.

"I grew up on the hurdy gurdy's across the road looking in on this place and the noise of the horses galloping past. I don't come from racing.

"This was my everest for a long time now and it's very special."

STEWARDS REPORTS

J.M. Sheridan, rider of Green Icon (FR), trained by Denis Gerard Hogan, reported to the Clerk of the Scales that his mount jumped left from the gates.

S. Foley, rider of Fiona MacCoul trained by Mrs John Harrington, reported to the Clerk of the Scales that his mount hung left off the home bend.

R.P. Whelan, rider of Oiche Rua trained by Adrian McGuinness, reported to the Clerk of the Scales that his mount got upset in the stalls.

The Raceday Stewards interviewed W. Joyce, rider of Gangsta Man concerning his use of the whip in the closing stages of this race. Evidence was heard from the rider concerned who accepted that he was in breach of the Regulation and apologised. Having viewed a recording of the race and considered the evidence the Raceday Stewards were satisfied that W. Joyce was in breach of Regulation 10.3.h (arm above shoulder height) and having considered his record in this regard (second offence) the Raceday Stewards suspended W. Joyce for four racedays.

Additional reporting by Alan Magee