The Charles O'Brien trained Sgt Rock it third time lucky when winning the Irish Stallion Farms European Breeders Fund Maiden at Dundalk this evening, under jockey Fran Berry.

The son of More Than Ready had twice finished third in maidens at the venue but improved two placings today, quickening up in the closing stages for a length win over promising newcomer Period Piece

Afterwards Berry stated “experience counted for a lot. He was very keen over seven and we thought that while dropping back may not be his ideal trip it would get him off the bridle early and teach him to settle. I was very happy with him before the straight.

“He won despite idling and is still green and a big baby. He did it well, has scope for improvement and might get a mile in time.”

By Thomas Weekes, quotes from Gary Carson