Showmolina another winner for in-form Johnny Levins

Showmolina continued the fine run of trainer Johnny Levins when easily landing the Paragon Bloodstock Apprentice Handicap at Naas.

Also successful at this track on his penultimate start, the Saffron Star Syndicate owned gelding could be called the winner a long way out.

Jockey Joey Sheridan kept it simple throughout, sticking to the inside rail, on an afternoon where it paid to be drawn in the lower numbers.

Travelling noticeably well at the mid way point of the race, Sheridan allowed his mount stride on and take the lead. From there, the result was never in any doubt, as Showmolina powered away to win easing down.

The winner was a 12th of the turf season for Curragh based trainer Levins.

“That was deadly, Joey seems to be getting on really well with him. Thankfully the owners have been very patient, and the trainer has been very patient,” said Levins.

“The jockeys are always complimentary when they do ride him, even though he has been jumping very slow and leaving a few races behind. They were adamant and confident when the penny drops he has plenty of class.

“Hopefully he can step out of that grade now. Sometimes horses can get stuck in that grade finishing third and fourth, you don't really see their true potential.

“Hopefully he can go on further now and pick up a few more prizes.

“He should come into his own at this time of year with the change in the ground.

“I'm delighted for all the owners, they are all from the north and all came down today. They obviously knew more than me, they must have fancied him and they came in droves today.”

Additional reporting by Gary Carson