Maal and Foley battle on well

David Marnane’s Maal proved too strong at the business end of Bellewstown’s opening one mile claimer.

The eight-year-old took the spoils at odds of 5/1 by a head from the fast finishing 6/1 shot Port Elizabeth with well-backed 15/8 favourite Full Title a length back in third.

Successful jockey Shane Foley, riding as a fully fledged jockey for the first time since losing his three pound claim at Fairyhouse on Wednesday, said: “When he settled he’s a different horse.

“He stays well and kept on well in the closing stages.”

Foley was deputising for Colm O'Donoghue who was booked to ride the gelding but who was reported to be feeling unwell.

Unraced Friend Request started slowly and unshipped Ben Curtis a furlong into the race after jinking at the road.

There were no horses claimed after the race.