Coins Cross and Mark Gallagher (right) win from Stalingrad (second right) © Photo Healy Racing
The Pick Up A BoyleXtra Card In Every BoyleSports Shop Maiden went to the 5/2 favourite Coins Cross in the hands of Mark Gallagher.
The Dragon Pulse gelding, runner-up in two of his three starts as a 2-year-old, was off the bridle pretty much from the outset and was being shoved along in fifth place at halfway.
Switched to the outer in the straight, he got into contention coming to the furlong marker and hit the front in the final 100 yards, staying on well to win by a length and a half from Stalingrad (11/1).
Winning trainer Eddie Harty said: “I took a chance going for it as I think he’s more of a 7f horse, but he had a nice run (fourth to Pale Iris) in a handicap at Naas (6f) on his first run of the season.
"I saw this maiden and an 82 (rated) horse in a maiden, if it’s a legitimate mark, should always be the yardstick.
"Even though I think he’s a 7f horse, possibly even a mile, they tend to go hard here because everyone wants to get a good position. Even though it’s only five and a half furlongs it becomes a stamina test.
“I was a bit worried at halfway but I’m delighted to get the winner for (owner) Stanley Watson. He’s involved in a few horses with me and it’s nice to see his colours come home in front."
