Monkeylou and Declan McDonogh keep all Killarney challengers at bay© Photo Healy Racing
Typically for an event on its nature, many held chances until late on in the John J. Galvin & Son Limited Rated Race at Killarney, Monkeylou (14/1) prevailing in the end for Gordon Elliott and Declan McDonogh.
Favourite Charcor finished off his race well, but not well enough to match Monkeylou, and half a length separated them at the finish.
Three and a half lengths split the first seven home.
"He has been a little frustrating but to me the key today was not to fight him and getting him into a rhythm," said McDonogh.
"Gordon, Aidan O'Ryan and myself spoke and said we wouldn't fight him; he's head-strong without being silly but once I didn't fight him he got into a lovely rhythm and the ground is the key to him as he has to get his toe in.
"He is quite a big heavy horse and he likes a give and he really wanted it today. Maybe he's only maturing into a horse now, he was a big two year old."
The Stewards ordered the withdrawal of Great Grey, trained by Luke W. Comer, for failing to lodge the passport in accordance with the provisions of Rule 90 (i).
The Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board Veterinary Officer examined Tony The Gent trained by G.M.Lyons, at the request of the Stewards and reported the animal to be post race normal.
(TW & EM)
