Shamiyan strikes on polytrack debut

Shamiyan made the most of his opportunity, getting into the Join Us On Instagram @dundalk_stadium Handicap, from his position as first reserve. On his seventh appearance all told the four-year-old shed his maiden tag.

Fresh from a double here on Friday night, Ronan Whelan did the steering on the 14/1 victor for owner Richard McNally and trainer Michael Halford.

There was a tremendous duel between Shamiyan and The Mouse Doctor from over a furlong out with the former edging it at the line by a neck.

“For a big horse he makes good use of himself and he actually floats along. The surface made a huge difference to him,” said Whelan.

“The last day he had a bad draw and I said to Mick that I wasn't sure he enjoyed the ground then.

“Mick brought him up here for a gallop and was happy with him. The lads at home have done a great job with him keeping him sweet and well.

“He deserved that and hopefully he can go on. He has loads of options and hopefully he can progress into a decent handicapper under both codes.

“That will do his confidence the world of good.”

The Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board Veterinary Officer examined Pak Army trained by J.R. Barry, at the request of the Stewards and reported the animal to be post race normal.

J.M. Sheridan, rider of Pak Army trained by J.R. Barry, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount hung left up the straight.

James J. Doyle, rider of Mandarin Monarch trained by Andrew McNamara, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount met with trouble in running in the home straight.

The Stewards reviewed an incident in the home straight involving Pak Army, ridden by J.M. Sheridan, Mandarin Monarch, ridden by James J. Doyle, and Touch Of Gold ridden by C.D. Hayes, where it appeared that Mandarin Monarch momentarily got tight for room. Having viewed the recording of the race, the Stewards were satisfied that no further action was warranted.

(GC & EM)