Ex-Minister’s horse finishes 2nd in Irish Grand National

A horse owned by Paddy Cooney, the former Government Minister from Athlone, was narrowly beaten in the Boyle Sports Irish Grand National Steeplechase during the Easter Bank Holiday weekend.

Mr Cooney’s horse, Golden Wonder, which is trained by Dessie Hughes, came second in the prestigious race, behind the 8-1 favourite Shutthefrontdoor.

When contacted by the Westmeath Independent, Mr Cooney said he was “very pleased” with his horse’s performance at Fairyhouse.

“It was a very good run. To finish three-quarters of a length behind the favourite was a fair achievement,” he said.

When asked if he owned any other horses, he replied that Golden Wonder was an “only child.” The horse was bred by Brian Dillon.

It will now rest for a few weeks, after the three mile five furlong race, before a decision is taken on its next move.

Mr Cooney is a former Fine Gael politician who served as Minister for Justice, Minister for Posts and Telegraphs, Minister for Transport, Minister for Defence and Minister for Education.