In first-time blinkers the well-backed Kodiac's Back justified 9/4 favouritism under Connor King in division one of the Friday Horse Racing Returns 25th September Handicap at Dundalk.

Having chased the leader David Marnane's representative led over three furlongs and he was asked for more a furlong and a half out.

The 'jolly' drifted left inside the final furlong, and after being strongly pressed close home he just held the run of Pretty Famous by a head.

"He had first time blinkers and travelled well, although I thought he might have got a lead for a bit longer," remarked Marnane.

"The handicapper can't go mad, and he'll probably come back here over the winter."

(AM & EM)