Madigan, winner of Zimbabwe’s Triple Crown in 2012, notched up his 10th win at Borrowdale Park on Sunday in the 1800m Merit Rated 80 Handicap.

Zita was scratched so only seven horses started and Two Gun Kid set the pace. Apprentice Norbert Takawira had Madigan nicely placed coming into the home turn and the son of Joshua Dancer (USA) forged ahead up the straight. Andrew Fortune on the more fancied Rock The Country gave chase, causing Madigan’s supporters a few anxious moments, but the seven-year-old gelding stuck to his guns and won by 0.75 lengths.

Madigan is trained by Kirk Swanson, owned by John Koumides, and bred by Mr S.R. Rousseau.

In addition to his 10 victories Madigan has been placed 9 times from 35 starts. He has had issues but this was his second win in succession and full marks to the connections for perseverance.

Given a chance many older horses have still got what it takes. In fact in Sunday’s race both the main players – Madigan and Rock The Country – are aged seven. Two-five-year olds, Diversify and Say So Tiger, settled for the third and fourth places.

Photograph: Gavin Macleod