Hamblin keeps Aussies’ hopes alive in challenge

THE visiting Australian team had a mixed day at Killarney yesterday with Paul Hamblin steering Monterey Bay to victory after Craig Durden had earlier suffered a broken collarbone.

The Australian style was easy to spot in a thrilling finish to the ladbrokes.ie Ireland V Australia Handicap Chase and proved very effective as Hamblin kept Monterey Bay going well to repel the challenge of Knocknabrogue by a length.

Francis Crowley’s gelding had jumped to the head of affairs at the third last but needed every assistance from the Queensland jockey to secure the victory.