Well-backed Natural Ruler lands Dundalk nightcap

Available at 8/1 before attracting plenty of support in early morning wagering, Natural Ruler was sent off 13/8 favourite for the concluding Christmas Party Nights At Dundalk Handicap and duly obliged under Colin Keane.

A winner at Fairyhouse in June and, after a break, third at this course last month, the Ten Sovereigns gelding was fitted with cheekpieces for the first time. Produced to challenge inside the final quarter-mile, he gained the upper hand inside the final furlong and, despite edging right, stayed on well to beat outsider Warrior Lion by a length-and-three-quarters.

Keane was completing a double after scoring on Glyndwr earlier and so too was trainer Johnny Murtagh who had struck with Blues Emperor in race four.

Murtagh's representative Niall Madden said of Australia-based OTI Racing's winner: “He's a big baby, he still rolled around a bit, but we really like him. 

“Johnny will talk to the boys down below and see if they want him to go there (Australia).

“He handles the surface really well. He still has plenty to learn and there is a bit of improvement in him.” 

Quotes from Gary Carson