Horse racing news: Dylan Browne McMonagle lands first Hong Kong winner with Flow Water Flow

Dylan Browne McMonagle slotted his first winner in Hong Kong when he piloted John Size–trained Flow Water Flow to victory in the Class 4 Triathlon Handicap (1 mile/1600m) at Sha Tin on Sunday 18 January.

The 22-year-old Irishman struck on what was only his 24th ride in Hong Kong, finishing strongly to get the better of the James Orman–ridden The Golden Knight by a short-head at the line.

McMonagle wins at Sha Tin

McMonagle said: “He [Flow Water Flow] had a really good record coming into this race. He’d been hitting the crossbar [with three seconds] in his first three starts.

“Stepping up to 1600m was going to be a big help to him today and he was good and strong in the last 100 metres – thankfully, he got his head in front.”

Reflecting on the beginning of his time in Hong Kong and the support he has received, McMonagle added: “It’s a great place to be competing. I’ve been very lucky, I’ve been getting on some nice horses in the last few weeks.

“I’ve been getting plenty of support and massive thanks to John Size. He’s been extra special, he’s been throwing a lot at me and thankfully I can reward him with a winner.”

McMonagle took three rides at the LONGINES Hong Kong International Races in December, partnering the Joseph O’Brien–trained pair Galen and Al Riffa to fourth-place finishes in the Group 1 LONGINES Hong Kong Mile and Group 1 LONGINES Hong Kong Vase, respectively, before beginning his three-month licence on New Year’s Day at Sha Tin.

McMonagle is currently licensed to ride in Hong Kong until 29 March.

Hong Kong racing continues at Sha Tin with an all-dirt meeting on Wednesday 21 January.

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