Continuing solid start to training career

TALENTED horseman Bailey McDonough has continued the solid start to his training career.

Already recognised for his prowess in the sulky, the Group One winning reinsman decided to expand his industry involvement by obtaining his trainer’s licence last month.

With one racing pacer under his care, McDonough made a triumphant debut in Penrith on November 23 before registering his second win from four outings at Club Menangle yesterday.

Having knowledge of the gelding while it was prepared by his then employer, Jess Tubbs, McDonough contacted Celestial Gossip’s connections to ask whether they would be interested in sending him to New South Wales.

“He was in South Australia, but I used to work with him at Jess’ place in Victoria, so I knew a bit about him,” McDonough said. “I’d actually driven him to half-a-dozen wins while we were both there.

“I could see he was failing to fire in SA, so I messaged the owners a couple of months back and asked if they were keen on trying him in New South Wales.

“They got back to me by the end of the day and he was here by the end of the week.

“He’s one of my favourites because I’d had a few wins behind him, but his status has grown now that he’s also become my first winner as a trainer.”

Driven by McDonough during his latest outing, Celestial Gossip worked to the lead from barrier eight before completing a two-metre victory from Freddy Singh.

Carlo Gambino was a head away third in 1:51.3 over a mile.

“I’m stoked with the way he went,” McDonough said. “He worked to the lead and still hit the line well.

“That will be his last run this time in as we’re both heading for a Christmas break.

“Hopefully we’ll be back just as good next season.”