Eddie Ahern has a record second to none at this venue in recent years, and the former champion apprentice recorded his eighth winner on the sand when Tidy Wager lived up to her name in the Arthur Guinness Maiden.
The Michael Grassick-trained filly, well-backed from 5/2 down to 2/1 favourite, drew clear from the two furlongs pole to beat main market rival Making A Break by five lengths.
Favourite backers were also on the mark in the following Guinness Extra Cold Q.R. Race where Rumours Abound scored in fine style under Philip Fenton. The four-year-old filly travelled smoothly to head Great Guns over a furlong out, and was pushed out to win by four and a half lengths.
'I bought her out of Dermot Weld's at the sales last year, and she may run again at Gowran Park on Sunday', said trainer Declan Gillespie, who was recording his fourth winner of the season.
Maynooth trainer Pat Martin also has a good record at Laytown, and Breffni Flyer added to his tally in the St James' Gate Q.R. Handicap. Caroline Hutchinson's mount cruised to the front two furlongs out for a two lengths victory over topweight Beaver Lodge.
'Breffni Flyer has never been beaten with a woman on his back, winning three times on the Flat plus a ladies hurdle race', said Martin, who added: 'He could go next for a lady riders handicap over a mile at Cork. If it works don't change it!'
Russell MacNabb saddled his first winner for over 13 months when Saintly Sow'N'Sow caused a shock in the opening Guinness Handicap. David Casey's mount struck the front just inside the final furlong to beat Ballymote by a length and a half, and may turn out again at Down Royal later this week.
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