Temasek Star and 'Dusty' Foley (centre) come through to score© Photo Healy Racing
The red-hot Michael Halford yard brought five horses to Dundalk tonight. Two of them, Maira and Shadagann (went under by just a head) finished second but the other three won, completed by Temasek Star in the concluding www.dundalkstadium.com Handicap.
Like the other two Halford scorers, Wychwood Warrior and Whaileyy Shane Foley was aboard Temasek Star and this Soviet Star gelding was backed from at least 16/1 this morning into 4/1 (allowing for the fact that the fancied Pennys Angel came out).
Temasek Star chased the leaders and he struck the front a furlong and a half out.
In the end it was difficult to know what had prevailed but the still showed that Temasek Star had prevailed by a short head from Elusive Laurence
"The owner, George Tay, from Singapore, is a good supporter and he's had to be very patient.
"The horse would probably prefer grass but it's nice to get a winning bracket. He'll be a stronger horse next year," reported Halford.
E.J. McNamara, rider of Little Stampy trained by D.Broad, reported to the Stewards' Secretaries that his mount unseated him coming out of stalls.
The Stewards requested a report from M.Halford, trainer as to the apparent improvement in form of Temasek Star, winner, as compared with its previous run here at Dundalk on 31st October where he finished 12th of 14 runners, beaten over 8 lengths.
Mr Halford reported that his charge was drawn very wide the last day, which was his first run under lights here at Dundalk, and tonight he had a better draw and they were able to ride him handily, and this may have brought about any improvement in form.
Having considered the report, the Stewards noted the explanations offered.
(AM & EM)
