Genuine Moktamel gains deserved success

Thursday's card at Tramore saw five winning favourites and punters have generally begun in decent fashion on the Saturday evening session at the Graun Hill venue with two successful market-leaders.

Half-an-hour on from Tooreen Katie s victory at odds of 11/8 in the opener, Moktamel (11/4 joint favourite) took the honours in the Perennial Freight Rated Race.

Kevin Prendergast 's Moktamel launched his bid for glory from over two furlongs out.

Soon in front under Dylan Hogan, Moktamel fended off Maricruz in the final furlong for a two and a quarter length win.

"He is probably one of the most genuine horses in training," enthused Hogan.

He added: "He deserved that, he travelled well throughout and I don't think it was ever in doubt. He battled well and all he does is battle. He is a tough horse, and they'll have a bit of fun with him over that kind of trip."

Meanwhile Des Cummins, representing Prendergast, stated: "He was unlucky at the Curragh in the Apprentice Derby.

"The boss will probably try and find another handicap for him now. He is a grand honest horse. The horses seem to be running better now."

(DM & EM)