The Road Is Long (orange cap) holds on © Photo Healy Racing
The Irish EBF Median Sires Series (C & G) Maiden went to the Joseph O'Brien-trained The Road Is Long (1/1 fav).
Having met in trouble in running on debut at Fairyhouse, Kevin Blake's son of Coulsty made all and showed a good attitude under pressure to fend off Heishybrid and Political Power by a neck and a head.
Mikey Sheehy, whose brother Danny had won the opener on Amanirenas came in for the ride after Declan McDonogh was laid low by illness.
Stable representative Sean Corby commented: "He was a bit unlucky, in fairness, the first day - short of room and looked to come home well."
"I think the step up to a mile suited.
"Mikey said he jumped very smartly from the gates and was going, so he was happy to make the running.
"He looked to be doing plenty in front, he was on the keen side. I was a little worried but, in fairness, he stuck at it well. From running with the choke out, he still hit the line. He held on in the end."
Quotes from Michael Graham
