Sam shines on Obligada

Top-rated Obligada ran out a cosy winner of the opening Students Race at Limerick tonight.

Kevin Prendergast 's charge had the highest rating in the field and with able apprentice Sam James taking 7lb off she done the business in good style.

The daughter of Beat Hollow, sent off a 6/1 shot, came with a strong run to claim front-running favourite Shelley Beach at the furlong pole and quickened clear for a two-length success.

James Kelly, racing manager to owner Lady O'Reilly, was full of praise for the winning rider: "Sam gave her some ride.

"The boss wants blacktype with her. She wouldn't settle last season and Kevin has done a brilliant job with her.

"Her dam won over 1m6f and we hope she would stay nine or ten furlongs."

Prendergast, speaking by phone, said later:- "The handicapper said she would win and he seems to know more than most people!

"I had some concerns about the ground but she did it well."