Saint just prevails under Codd for Elliott

Newcomer Saint Or Sinner got up on the line to take the finale at Downpatrick, the Two N & M's INH Flat Race.

Trained by Gordon Elliott, the daughter of Milan is a full-sister to six-time winner The Paparazzi Kid and is owned by Pioneer Racing.

As short as 5/6 in early shows, she eventually went off at 7/4, with the support coming for fellow debutant Barnet Brook who was returned the 6/4 market leader.

Settled towards rear by Jamie Codd, the bay victor took closer order on the outer from the four furlong pole.

She was ridden in third with a furlong left to race but kept on best up the stands side rail in the closing stages, getting up to prevail by a short head. Mystery Stowaway (14/1) was the one just denied, with Declan Lavery aboard this five-year-old for John Ryan.

Coosan Belle (8/1) was another half a length back in third, while Barnet Brook could only manage fourth.

Chris Donnelly from Pioneer Racing said afterwards: "She's a beautifully-bred filly and we are lucky to have her. We knew we didn't want to be in front too early but she stays all day.

"We thought she was well capable of winning the race. Jamie (Codd) gave her a peach and she did it well in the end.

"He thought they were going a wee bit quick at the end there and he didn't want to be in front too early.

"It was her first time out and she was a bit fresh in herself. She was staying on at the end for fun, so hopefully there is more to come.

"That would be definitely as quick as she would want it, so we are delighted with the win today.

"This is what it is all about for Pioneer Racing - there are over 100 in the actual racing club. We syndicate out mares as such and we purchase horses and lease horses.

"There are 15 people involved in the syndicate with Saint Or Sinner.

"Myself and two colleagues decided a few years ago to set up Pioneer Racing. It's for people like ourselves to have a day out.

"Gordon (Elliott) said he knows she is a nice mare and that she would take a bit of beating today.

"The ground was a question coming here today and she has gone on and has done it nicely.

"We've another great horse for the club - Everybreathyoutake - who won the novice race in Roscommon last week.

"We have a couple more equally as nice to come, so we have a lot to look forward to."

Additional reporting by Michael Graham