Invincible Ryker stretches out well under Ross Coakley© Photo Healy Racing
The Crowne Plaza Race & Stay 2018 Rated Race looked open on paper but the market got it right as Invincible Ryker (100/30 favourite) came out on top in Dundalk's fourth event.
Under Ross Coakley, Michael Halford's runner raced in the rear of mid-division on the outer.
When asked for more Invincible Ryker made some headway over a furlong out, keeping on well to lead in the final hundred yards for a one length verdict over Arbourfield
Big market mover Alcatraz blew his chance with a slow start and ended up finishing eighth.
"I thought Ross gave him a very good ride from a wide draw," said Halford in the aftermath.
"The plan was to go forward but they were going hard and he just took him back and settled him in. He got a nice clear run.
"Seven is a good trip for him. Whether they went too hard in front, I don't know, but he came home well.
"I'm delighted to give Ross a winner. He's in riding out for us for the past few months and he's heading off to Australia tomorrow for a month. That'll give him a bit of a boost.
"He rides well. He used his head well on him and the 3lb was a help.
"I'm delighted to get the first of the year out of the way. He'll keep him going up here as he loves the surface and seven is probably his ideal trip."
B.M. Coen, rider of Timia (GB) trained by Keith Henry Clarke, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount lost its action turning into the straight.
W.J. Lee, rider of Alcatraz, trained by Richard John O'Brien, reported to the Stewards' Secretaries that his mount dwelt in stalls.
The Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board Veterinary Officer examined Timia (GB), trained by Keith Henry Clarke, at the request of the Stewards and reported the animal to be post race normal.
(GC & EM)
