Record-breaking Monarch in a stunning Kirby Memorial victory

BOUNCING MONARCH produced a stunning record-breaking performance to land the €80,000 Con & Annie Kirby Memorial final over 525 yards at Limerick.

Sent off third favourite at 3/1 behind market leaders Bockos Gold and Ballymac Setanta, the Michael O'Donovan-trained dog never gave that duo or any of his rivals a look-in as he flew out of trap one to take early command.

A couple of lengths clear entering the back straight, he extended that margin throughout and came home fully seven lengths clear of dead-heating duo Ballymac Setanta and Ballycowen Frank, who could not be separated for second giving the last-named's trainer O'Donovan a share of the forecast.

Impressive as the performance was, the winning time topped it all with Bouncing Monarch stopping the clock at 27.77sec, six spots inside the previous track record set by Ballymac Danica.

Prior to being sent to O'Donovan for a Kirby Memorial challenge, owner Fradgley had himself trained the January 2024 son of Deerjet Sydney and Lemon Elsa to three Category One finals in England, the Nottingham Puppy Classic, Steel City Cup at Sheffield and Monmore's Winter Derby.

There was also cause for celebration beyond the track, as Effin GAA Club enjoyed a memorable success as the nominated club.

Their association with Bouncing Monarch secured them a €10,000 prize and a free benefit night.