Just a short head separated Sirjack Thomas (15/2) and Stop On Red in the first division of the Gift & Art Gallery Dundalk Handicap and it was the former who prevailed to register his eighth career victory.

The nine-year-old is operating at a much lower level nowadays compared to when he was in his pomp and this was only his second time to contest a handicap in the 47-65 bracket. 

In front over a furlong out, he was joined by Stop On Red inside the final 100 yards but lunged at the right time under Adam Caffrey to gain the spoils.

Trainer Ado McGuinness, who sadly lost his brother Johnnie earlier this week, said: "I'll probably go to Galway with him now, I needed a few pound to get into one of the lower-grade handicaps, so he'll get into it now. 

"He's never really run that well on this surface, but we just said it wasn't a wonderful race - no disrespect to the other horses in it. 

"We just felt a horse of his class would have a chance in it, so it is great. We've got great fun out of him and he has slipped down the ratings. 

"Great for Adam and the whole yard, we have had a rough week. This day two years ago Adam was a 10lb claimer."

Quotes from Michael Graham