Poignant evening as Kilbeggan races make return to the track
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Olivia Mulready and Eamon Mulready at Kilbeggan Races last Friday evening. Photos: Paul Molloy.Image 2 of 9
RBK on tour, Graham Glynn, Aaron Jones, Suzanne Moran, Áine Campbell, Suzanne Duffy, Áine McDonnell, Claire Keegan, Deirdre Garvey, Rebecca Caldwell, Mary Ellen Halligan and James Fitzmaurice at Kilbeggan Races last Friday evening.Image 3 of 9
Mary Lee and Kevin Lee at Kilbeggan Races last Friday evening.Image 4 of 9
Michael Digan with Nina Carberry at Kilbeggan Races on Friday.Image 5 of 9
Aoife and Keith Higgins at Kilbeggan Races last Friday evening.Image 6 of 9
John Joe Carberry with Nina Carberry at Kilbeggan Races last Friday evening.Image 7 of 9
Run For Harry ridden by K M Donoghue, winner of the second race at Kilbeggan Races last Friday evening.Image 8 of 9
Tommy Fagan and Kevin Dempsey at Kilbeggan Races last Friday evening.Image 9 of 9
Battle Roar (no 16) ridden by Ciaran Murphy at Kilbeggan Races last Friday evening.Friday’s race meeting at Kilbeggan was the first since the tragic passing of race course manager Paddy Dunican and it was a poignant evening in that regard.
If You Let Me at odds of 7/2, won the opening race (4.25pm) on the card for jockey Keith Donoghue and trainer Gavin Cromwell.
It was a good start to the evening for punters and the second race (5pm), a two-mile handicap hurdle, went to Run for Harry at odds of 3/1, with Keith Donoghue on board again. The 5.35 race, a two-mile three furlong maiden hurdle saw Mark Walsh deliver a winning performance on board Win Some Lose Some. He carried the well-known JP McManus colours to victory at odds of 3/1.
Then at 6.10pm, in a two-mile three furlong maiden hurdle, HaveIgotnewsforyou delivered a winning performance at odds of 14/1 for jockey Mark Walsh and trainer Colm Murphy. He saw off Gaucher, the 5/2 favourite for champion trainer Willie Mullins.
Bardenstown Lad took the next (6.45pm) for Keith Donoghue and Gavin Cromwell again at generous odds of 25/1. He denied Lisnamult Lad (7/1).
The 7.20pm race, a two-mile four furlong beginners chase, was won by Jasmin De Cotte (2/1), while the 7.55 race went to The Dasher Conway at odds of 12/1. The finale went to the even money favourite Custom Taylor.
Paddy Dunican’s departure has left a void in the community that will be difficult to fill. He was not just a resident of Kilbeggan; he was a pillar of strength, a true gentleman, and a kind friend to many. The energy and enthusiasm he brought to every interaction, every gathering, and every moment spent in his company were truly remarkable. Paddy’s presence lit up the room, and his infectious laughter and warm smile brought joy to all who knew him.