Hogan ‘in the loop’ with double

Trainer/rider Denis Hogan completed a double with odds-on favourite San Gabriel and Ocean Glandore at Ballinrobe last night.

And the Cloughjordan-based handler was among the many riders who welcomed the track’s new ‘loop’ which was used for the first time, commenting: “It used to be tight out there, but the new ground makes it a lovely galloping track,” after partnering 4/5 favourite San Gabriel to an emphatic win in the opening Mulholland Bookmakers Maiden Hurdle.

San Gabriel, having his third run in a week, made a mistake when challenging at the second last but was soon in command and came home six lengths clear of Effernock Lad, prompting Hogan to add: “It was an average contest and he was having his third quick run, but he did it well. He couldn’t handle winter ground but loved that fast, safe surface tonight. We might mix-it with him and he’ll probably be going to Galway.”