Celtic Revival & James Ryan (purple)© Photo Healy Racing
Celtic Revival proved game to score again at Dundalk this afternoon for the trainer Eddie Lynam.
The Sea The Stars gelding opened his account over course and distance last month and repeated the dose under James Ryan.
He produced the 4/1 shot to tackle Lex Maxima inside the final furlong and he got the better of that rival close home for a half length success in the mile-and-a-half handicap.
Ryan said: "He is starting to learn how to race now. He was running a bit keen but Eddie has done a great job, he is starting to settle away. He's improving the whole time.
"He is (a very genuine horse), he was running out his race too early and sort of racing backwards but he is starting to learn how to find his feet and settle down. He puts his head down and keeps going, in fairness to him.
"He has the shape and size for it (hurdling), he's starting to settle better so you never know.
"I was keen to get a bit of cover, I was drawn a bit wide which wasn't ideal but he got a bit of cover and settled away grand. They slowed it up down the back which didn't help ideally, but he was good and honest which made my life a lot easier.
"I'm apprenticed to Tom McCourt, he has been very good to me now. He gave me plenty of experience and winners, so I can't thank him enough. I'm in Ger Lyons' a morning a week and in with James McAuley. We'll see how the year gets on, it is great to ride these lads for Eddie Lynam. I can't thank him enough.
"My weight is okay at the moment. I'm handling it well, so I'll get as much out of the Flat as I can. I've no problem jumping either."
(Quotes by Michael Graham)
