State steps up on third start Senator Of State sprang a 33/1 shock in first-time blinkers in the Irishinjuredjockeys.com Maiden at Dundalk. The Donnacha O’Brien-trained colt had finished mid-division over course and distance last month and stepped forward significantly on his third official outing. Paddy Harnett produced his mount to challenge passing the two pole and he fought it out with Let’s Smash It from over a furlong out. The pair both ran around slightly in tough weather conditions with Senator Of State sticking his head out late on to secure a neck success. An enquiry was called but the result stood. Harnett said: "From his work at home, no (not surprised). He has been working pretty well. "He came forward from his first run the last day and we were a little bit disappointed the last day. In fairness, he kept coming (the last day). "We were able to get a nice position today off an even pace and it worked out well. "Definitely (first-time blinkers brought about improvement), he was definitely sharper from the gates. He was a little bit sleepy before from the gates, so that is probably where he lost his races. "We definitely thought that he would win up here, and definitely a maiden. "It is a little bit gusty in the straight, but not too bad." (Quotes by Michael Graham)
