Shannon has the makings of a lovely horse

Strongly supported 8/11 favourite Shannon Soul benefited from a lovely front-running Shane Foley ride, to get home narrowly in front in the Irish Stallion Farms European Breeders Fund (C & G) Maiden at Dundalk.

The half-brother to Group 2 winner, Shakespearean, made a promising debut here a fortnight back when fourth, and he obviously came forward sufficiently for that experience.

The Michael Enright owned and bred Shannon Soul may have edged slightly right in the closing stages but he always looked to be just holding on and did so in the end by a head from the 90-rated original market-leader Solomon Northup

Newcomer, Navegante exceeded expectations to take the third spot, half a length adrift, as a 25/1 shot.

There was an objection to the winner by the runner up's connections, but the result was allowed stand.

Winning trainer Michael Halford made the point in the aftermath: "With the second a 90 horse it just shows how competitive Irish racing is. There are no easy races – especially two-year-old races."

The Copper Beech Stables handler then stated: "He has the makings of a lovely horse but it wasn't ideal making the running. He was very green and very babyish.

"It wasn't easy with the head-wind and he's still a bit weak.

"He'll strengthen up with a winter under his belt.

"He gets a mile well and he might get a bit further."

The Stewards received an objection from Charles O'Brien, trainer, stating that his charge Solomon Northup (USA), placed second, had been struck across the head by the whip of the winning rider in the latter stages of this race.

Evidence was heard from Charles O'Brien, S. Foley rider of Shannon Soul, placed first and F.M. Berry rider of Solomon Northup (USA), placed second. Having viewed the recording of the race and considered the evidence, the Stewards overruled the objection and took no further action.

(AM & EM)