New Classicism (right) gets the better of Kidd Malibu © Photo Healy Racing
New Classicism landed a touch as he put in a determined front-running display to take the Pour Moi EBF Maiden under Billy Lee for Willie McCreery and Godolphlin.
Sixth and fourth on his first two starts at Dundalk, the son of New Approach was available at 16/1 last night.
He opened on-course at 10/1 and was backed into 7/1 at the off.
Soon in front he made all. He was pressed and joined (possibly headed) by Kidd Malibu inside the final furlong, but he battled back gamely, getting up to score by a neck.
Kidd Malibu was returned a 7/2 chance under Pat Smullen for Dermot Weld.
Newcomer Lustrous Light was sent off the well-backed 7/4 favourite (from 3's).
He finished out his race well, and was a neck back in third under Colin Keane for Ger Lyons.
Willie McCreery said afterwards: "He battled well and his experience counted.
"Billy was very positive on him. We said because he was drawn 12 that we'd jump out and be good and positive on him. He had the experience, would love the ground and we thought he'd need further in time.
"He could have thrown in the towel there when he was headed but he didn't and that was lovely to see.
"We'll take baby steps with him and maybe go for a three-year-old handicap."
Additional reporting by Gary Carson
