Fox has Mouse smiling at Fairyhouse

There was a memorable first Irish Grand National victory today for young Ardcath jockey Ger Fox who partnered the Michael 'Mouse' Morris-trained Rogue Angel to a dramatic victory in the historic race at Fairyhouse with a front-running performance for Gigginstown House Stud.

Owner Michael O'Leary wasn't at Fairyhouse as he is currently on holidays according to his brother and racing manager Eddie.

However, the victory probably ignited a major party around the Ardcath area following a tremendous contest.

This was the second time that Ger Fox partnered Rogue Angel and after winning the €175,000 Kerry National at Listowel last September he has now added the €275,000 Grade A Irish Grand National to his list of success - a fair achievement for a three-pound claimer.

'I knew he'd jump and stay and I thought it would take a fair horse to beat him today,' the Meath jockey told Andrew McNamara for RTE in a quick post-race interview trackside as he also added 'I'm only 15 minutes up the road from here.'

Ger is from Ardcath and is with the Noel Meade stable, but he can claim a unique record with his twin brother Anthony - they both rode a double (two winners each) at Down Royal on St Stephen's Day 2014.

They also rode a winner apiece at Down Royal on St Patrick's Day this year (last week) with Anthony now back riding as an amateur.

Now Ger has added an Irish Grand National to his tally of winners as he continues to make the most of the opportunities that come his way.

See video clip of finish taken from RTE coverage.