GORDON Elliott had more success in Nashville last weekend, but the leading trainer also loves the wild west of Ballinrobe and will be aiming to win the McHale Mayo National there for the fourth year in a row on Monday week, May 25th.

Last year’s winner Western Fold went on to win the Galway Plate, Gowran Champion Chase and a Grade 1 novice chase at the Punchestown Festival, so Ballinrobe’s €100,000 handicap chase is surely in line for an upgrade!

This fixture’s association with the Elliott yard runs even deeper, as one of the supporting races is the McHale Tiger Roll Beginners Chase, which marks the fact that the dual Grand National winner recorded his first victory over fences at Ballinrobe.

With that kind of history, it’s no wonder that TG4 will be broadcasting live coverage of the day. Racing starts at 4.30pm.

This will be the 13th year of sponsorship by the McHale group, specialists in farm machinery.

Ballinrobe manager, John Flannelly said: “McHale Raceday has become one of the standout fixtures of our season. It was fantastic to visit Gordon’s yard recently with the McHale team and get a behind-the-scenes look at the preparation that goes into these horses - it really strengthens the connection between the racecourse, the sponsors, and the sport.”

Eoin Clarke, representing McHale, added: “Visiting Gordon Elliott’s yard was a brilliant experience - it gave us a real appreciation for the dedication and expertise involved at the highest level of racing.”

SCULPTOR Matthew Thompson will start work on the Doneraile steeplechasing monument this month. The committee behind the project, which will celebrate the staging of the very first steeplechase in 1752, is continuing its fundraising efforts with a golf classic at Doneraile Golf Club on Friday and Saturday, June 12th and 13th. A team of three can enter for just €150 and this includes a clubhouse meal. You can book a slot by calling 086 3542814 or 086 1701351.