Reinas Queen surprised her trainer Sarah Dawson by winning on Naas’ fast ground today, landing the Follow Us On Facebook Apprentice Handicap under capable claimer Danny Sheehy.

The daughter of Tagula’s previous best form had been on soft ground but today proved just as good when holding the challenge of runner-up Claregate Street by a length and a quarter.

Co Down based Dawson later said “to be honest I didn't think she'd handle the ground but she was in such serious form that we had to give it a chance at that level.

“I thought she should have won at Ayr but things just didn't work out.

“Danny was told to take a pull and give her a bit of cover and it what worked well and she enjoyed having something to aim at. Credit to Danny, it was a good ride.

"I didn't think she'd let down on that ground at all so it gives me a few more options ground wise as well. I thought she was more dependant on soft ground but she handled that very well. She's in rude health so I had to have a go tonight.

“I'm delighted for her owner Gerry McManus, who has had horses in training for a long time and has been very faithful to me.

“She's not entered up for anywhere but I'll find somewhere soon and keep it going.”

Quotes from Gary Carson