Son Of Mahler Captures Valuable Prize On Return

The Big Dog (9g Mahler - Saddlers Leader, by Saddlers’ Hall) made an impressive seasonal return to capture Sunday’s valuable feature at Limerick, the Grade A Munster National.

Peter Fahey’s talented charge had previously landed a valuable prize in the Grade B Grand National Trial at Punchestown, but had to overcame an absence since February on Sunday. The bay raced prominently throughout the three mile chase and was asked to quicken from two out by Keith Donoghue. Staying on well, he led in the final strides to deny the favourite by a head, with the pair drawing nine lengths clear of the field.

Speaking after the race, Fahey said, “Keith got on very well with him, he jumped and travelled for him the whole way through the race. He will tip away and we'll aim for the Troytown and other staying chases, and if he ended up being an Aintree horse I'd be delighted.”

Bred by Kevin Neville, The Big Dog is owned by Damien and Colin Kelly.