Trainer Michael Halford registered his second winner of the new flat campaign at Dundalk today as his Godolphin owned Pearlman (11/4) overturned 4/9 favourite Dunkirk Harbour to win the Avenue Inn Maiden.

By Enable's sire Nathaniel, Pearlman, under jockey Ronan Whelan, today quickened past Dunkirk Harbour inside the final furlong to eventually score a length and three parts win.

Afterwards Halford stated “I’d say he’s improving. Ronan gave him a lovely ride, kept it simple and got a lead, and we said we’d have one go at the favourite (Dunkirk Harbour).

“Our lad stuck his head out and you’d like his attitude. He handles the surface. We’ll step him up now to handicaps and see how he goes.”

Quotes from Alan Magee