Keane three clear in race for title

Trim jockey Colin Keane heads to Newmarket today boosted by an 84/1 treble at Dundalk last night that propelled him three clear of champion jockey Pat Smullen in the race for the 2017 flat title.

Last night at Dundalk Keane forged into a 76-73 lead over Smullen.

Keane was on the mark for his boss Ger Lyons with My Mystique and Reckless Endeavour and Stamullen handler  Tom McCourt provided the ammunition in the final race on the card with Ben Rumson which got the better of another McCourt runner Crown Pleasure. 

Today at Newmarket Keane will partner Treasuring for his boss Ger Lyons in the Cheveley Park Stakes (2.20pm) but he is also on board the David O'Meara-trained Bravery in the Cambridgeshire (3.35pm) and That Is The Spirit in a valuable handicap.

Smullen will also be in action at Newmarket with three chances including Gordon Elliott's Beckford in the Group One MIddle Park Stakes.

Keane and Smullen will renew their duel for the title at Tipperary tomorrow.


NATIONAL HUNT
At Gowran Park yesterday Cortown jockey Roger Loughran was on the mark for trainer Denis Cullen with Dysios in a maiden hurdle while Dermot McLoughlin continued his good week following up on his win at Sligo when Ballymadun won a handicap hurdle with Conor Maxwell on board.