Kilmeaden a game winner under Harnett for O'Brien

Kilmeaden battled gamely to make the breakthrough in the Gra Chocolates Handicap, providing Donnacha O'Brien with his eighth winner of the month.

Fourth when last seen in the Ulster Derby at Down Royal, the Galileo bay was sent off an 11/2 chance this evening.

Settled in second by Paddy Harnett, the 82-rated victor was pushed along and improved into a share of the lead with over three-furlongs to go.

Tackled by both Bear Creek and Starford approaching the straight, he ultimately fought out the finish with the latter and just a neck split them at the line.

Well-supported from 9/2 into 2/1 favouritism, Chris Hayes was aboard the runner-up for Joseph O'Brien, with Bear Creek (6/1), who was three-and-a-quarter lengths back in third, also representing the Owning Hill handler.

"He has loads of ability but is just a bit gawky. Paddy gave him a great ride," the winning trainer commented.

"I think Galway probably suited him in that he was turning, and it kept him interested. It’s lovely to get a winner here.

"He stays well, he's a Galileo and to be fair he found plenty for pressure. Hopefully it's onwards and upwards.

"He's very laid back and I don’t see any reason why he wouldn’t stay further."

STEWARDS REPORTS

The Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board Veterinary Officer examined Propose trained by A.P.O'Brien, at the request of the Raceday Stewards and reported the animal to be post race normal.

P.A. Harnett, rider of Kilmeaden, trained by Donnacha Aidan O'Brien, reported to the Clerk of the Scales that his mount rolled both ways when he hit the front.

M.W Hassett, rider of Fortuna Vera trained by Joseph Patrick O'Brien, reported to the Clerk of the Scales that his mount got no run in the straight.

R.P. Cleary, rider of Miss Nifty trained by Ms. Sheila Lavery, reported to the Clerk of the Scales that his mount was keen throughout.

D.P. McDonogh, rider of Desmond Castle trained by Joseph Patrick O'Brien, reported to the Stewards' Secretaries that his mount went right from the stalls.

Additional reporting by Alan Magee