Almendares continues on an upward curve

Almendares knuckled down well to record back-to-back wins at Dundalk for Andy Slattery.

The trainer's son and namesake took the ride on the Havana Grey gelding and held his mount up in the early stages of the six-furlong conditions event.

He travelled well to challenge a furlong-and-a-half from home and the 3/1 shot got on top from front-runner Catherine Of Siena inside the final furlong to post a half length success.

The winner was turning the tables on 6/4 favourite Vanguard Star who finished third, having chased home that rival here last month. He had subsequently won a maiden over course and distance.

Slattery senior said: "He's improving on every run, he's going the right way and two on the bounce.

"He'll probably be sold now I'd imagine, Hong Kong was interested in him during the week. He was rated 81, so we came here and he will probably go to 90 now.

"He's getting better and I think there is more to come.

"We thought he was a nice horse last year but he was a bit weak, sore shins and that.

"I thought Vanguard Star beat him very easily the last day, but he obviously is after improving a lot since then. I knew he would improve, but I didn't know he would improve that much."

(Quotes by Michael Graham)