Well-backed Shaaden provides Norris & Flynn with memorable success

In the silks of this years Punchestown Charity Race winning rider Glen Norris, Shaaden landed a gamble in the Bet On The Best Night Out At Dundalk Stadium Handicap.

Available at 14/1 in early shows for this seven furlong heat, the Pat Flynn-trained four-year-old came in for sustained market support, eventually going off at just 3s.

A runner-up at Gowran in July, the Invincible Spirit bay was pushed along from the stalls by Billy Lee and was soon settled behind the leaders.

Making progress from early in the straight, she led over a furlong out and kept on well when ridden to hold off the effort of Jackie Brown by half a length.

The runner-up was returned at 12/1 under champion apprentice James Ryan, while recent course and distance winner Ferrari Desert (11/4f) was a length and a quarter back in third.

"I didn't really say much to Billy, you don't really have to say anything to him. If you do, you are in trouble!" Norris commented.

"Just if he could get her away early, we were confident. Pat was probably more confident than me.

"Pat's horses are flying and he has had a great season.

"It is great to have a winner in my colours, finally. It is my first in my colours. Myself and Pat have had a few, obviously.

"It is 100 winners for Billy as well (in calendar year including Britain).

"She has been a little bit unlucky once or twice, but tonight was her night. She was in great form and I'm delighted, I can't believe it.

"Especially to have it with Pat, I'm with him a long time. I know Pat since 1994 when I went in there and started riding out."

Flynn added: "Glen has ridden winners for us.

"We just said to have her as prominent as you want. She came up lovely and came on the bridle and did it well in the finish."

STEWARDS REPORT

The Raceday Stewards requested a report from Patrick J.Flynn, trainer, as to the apparent improvement in form of Shaaden, placed first, as compared with its recent form. The trainer reported that a sounder surface on this occasion helped to bring about the apparent improvement in form. Having considered the report the Raceday Stewards noted the explanation offered.

Additional reporting by Michael Graham