IN-FORM Training Team McNamara, which includes dad Eric, son Conor, and daughter Katie, of Beechmount Stables in Rathkeale won the featured €100,000 BoyleSports JT McNamara Munster National with Real Steel (8/1) at Greenmount Park, Patrickswell.
“Magic,” declared McNamara. “To win that race with John Thomas’ name on it means an awful lot to us. We were very close pals over the years, and he rode plenty of winners for me. He rode my first Cheltenham winner, at the November meeting, and we were great friends. I’m over the moon to win that race.”
Of the winner, he added: “He’s been a great servant for us, winning the Paddy Power and being third in that race last year. He’s been a marvellous horse, and Danny (Mullins) was exceptional on him today.
“In the past, he won a Kerry National for me, so I was delighted to get him to ride for me. You’d have to say his jumping probably won the race for him. Danny was good and plucky on him and the horse answered every call for him. He jumped superbly —absolutely superbly.”
Real Steel is owned by Tadhg Moynihan of Killarney, county Kerry.
The win of Real Steal brought with it a welcome €20,000 for Down Syndrome Limerick, courtesy of the JP McManus Charity Sweepstake.
