Aristovic (yellow) © Photo Healy Racing
A 7lb rise in the ratings didn't prevent Aristovic from following up last month's Tipperary victory in the three-year-old handicap.
The daughter of Awtaad, bred by joint-owner David Spratt, tracked the leaders and was nudged along to get into contention from early in the straight. She led over a furlong out and was ridden out by Joey Sheridan to beat Independent Expert by half a length.
The Johnny Levins-trained winner will carry a further 7lb if turning out over the same course and distance for the 6.00 tomorrow.
Sheridan said: "She had a few good runs in Dundalk and was hardy the last day.
"Fair play to Johnny (Levins) as it was a nice piece of placing to bring her down here and he knows this horse inside out and knew this track would suit her. I'm riding a bit of work for him now, his horses are flying and things are going well for him.
"Chris Hayes rode her at Dundalk and thought she was ground-versatile and it is nice ground today without any jar."
Quotes from Tom Weekes
