McMonagle goes further clear as Ahern gets off the mark Dylan Browne McMonagle moved nine clear at the head of the Jockeys’ Championship today when providing trainer Maurice Ahern with a first success on Perry Mason (25/1), in the Curragh’s concluding 1xbet.ie Supports Irish Racing Handicap. Previously trained in Britain by Jane Chapple-Hyam and Michael Wigham, Perry Mason’s form line had been largely unexciting but today benefitted from a patient ride, gradually improving from the rear of mid-division to lead inside the final furlong and defeat Super Exceed by a half-length. It was Co Cork-based Ahern’s breakthrough success in his first year with a licence and afterwards Browne McMonagle, who now leads Colin Keane 95-86, said “Maurice left things up to me and thought he would run well. He felt like he was improving plenty at home. “We said we’d go forward and get comfortable to halfway. We went a good gallop and I was able to get on to the back of Chris (Hayes) at halfway: I thought he would quicken up a little bit better than he did and I was waiting for him to go so I could get room. “I had to come back and come around, so had to do it the hard way. He was good and tough to the line and hopefully he can go again. He was well prepared for the day and I’m delighted for connections, well done to all.” Quotes from Gary Carson
