Teenage prodigy Dylan Browne McMonagle goes close on his debut

Teenage prodigy Dylan Browne McMonagle almost enjoyed a dream start to his career under rules at Gowran Park on Thursday.
The champion pony rider, who turned 16 in March, finished second in division one of the apprentice handicap aboard the Dick Donohoe-trained Harvey Specter, five lengths behind joint-favourite Lady In Lavender.
McMonagle won the prestigious Dingle Derby as a 12-year-old in 2015, a record at the time, and caught the eye of Sir Anthony McCoy when a short film called Five Stone Of Lead was made about his victory.
He has spent time riding out with the 20-time champion jockey and earned an invitation to the British Racing School. He is also a champion boxer having won the Irish national title two years ago.
“It's been a great experience," said the jockey, who has joined Joseph O'Brien as an apprentice. "It's great to get the first one over and done with and he ran a cracker. I thought I was going to be more nervous, but I was 100 per cent and it was great.
"I knew I would get the ride if my licence came out on time and it just about did. I was delighted to get the ride for Dick and for the owner Paul Sweeney, who I've known for years."
The young jockey added: "The rides I get are totally up to Joseph but hopefully I'll get a few chances over the winter and get my name out there. It's a good time of year because some of the older riders head away and more apprentices get a chance around tracks like Dundalk."
Donohoe was suitably impressed with the rider and is predicting a bright future. "He gave that horse a fine ride from a bad draw," said the trainer. "He was very tidy at the finish too and has a big future."
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