Prospector gives O'Brien a treble

Lightly-raced Prospector showed plenty of pace when bolting up in the 20-runner Dr. Walter Halley Lifetime Achievement Handicap at Leopardstown.

The three-year-old colt made good headway to sweep into the lead a furlong and a half out. He moved clear of the remainder at the furlong pole and was soon ridden by Donnacha O'Brien to maintain the advantage.

The 9/2 favourite, trained by Aidan O'Brien, held a two and a half length lead at the winning post as he won eased down. Athenry Boy (25/1) came out on top of a bunch finish to the places. He pipped the well-backed Deor (morning price of 14/1 to an SP of 11/2) by a head for second. Jan Van Eyck (14/1) was a neck off Deor in fourth.

Donnacha O'Brien said: " I've had a few doubles at Dundalk and I think that's my third overall. This horse doesn't show much at home but keeps it for the track. He's a tough, progressive sort."

Walter Halley was the former Turf Club doctor and served for 33 years until 2008.

Prospector gave Aidan O'Brien a treble on the card as he was also successful with Even Song and Jaqen H'Ghar The latter was ridden by Donnacha O'Brien who doubled up on Prospector.

On his last appearance, Prospector won a mile and a quarter maiden at Navan.

Additional reporting by Alan Magee