Lyons hits the ton with Toccata

Toccata Blue gave Ger Lyons his 100th winner at Dundalk when claiming the Crowne Plaza Hotel Race & Stay Maiden on the all-weather course.

The Verglas gelding got on top in the closing stages to give Lyons the milestone winner.

Emmet McNamara had his mount prominent throughout and he gave chase when Eusepio hit the front with two furlongs to run.

He pressed that rival hard inside the final furlong and got his head in front close home for a half-length success.

The 7/4 winner has showed significant improvement this winter and had been placed on two visits to the track last month.

The winning trainer's brother Shane was on duty with Ger still in Meydan and he said afterwards:-

“That's Ger's 100th winner here at Dundalk and the horses are running well at the moment.

“This fella had a bit of sinus problem in the summer and he deserves that win.

“I'm also delighted for his owner Damian Nolan, who is based in Paris. He has been with us for a few years and is a good supporter.” Ebadani was sent off the 4/5 favourite for the seven-furlong contest but could only finish sixth.

(Additional reporting by Alan Magee)