Clonmacnoise revels in front-running role

Saturday 20 July 2013, 12:58pm

Jockey Glen Killen has learned not to doubt the judgment of trainer Alan Jones.

Killen followed Jones's instructions to lead on Clonmacnoise in Saturday's Sky Racing Handicap (2200m) at Eagle Farm and make it a true staying test.

"When I had my first ride on this horse it was at Caloundra when he was first-up for two months over 2200 metres on a heavy nine (track)," Killen said.

"Alan said to me that day `don't hold him up, let him run'. I looked at him for a few seconds then went, OK, did what I was told and he won by four-and-three-quarter lengths.

"Today was no different."

Killen knew Clonmacnoise had his rivals covered before they reached the home turn.

"When I rode him in the Queensland Cup last start we got to the 700 metres and he didn't respond but today when I gave him a squeeze I could feel him pick up," he said.

"On the heavy track it makes the horses behind you work harder to try and catch him and they simply couldn't today."

Chris Munce, who rode the $1.40 favourite Tuskegee Hawk, couldn't offer an excuse for her defeat as the mare was beaten five lengths by winner into second place.

– AAP

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