Hong Kong-bound Playa takes Dundalk opener Playa Del Puente changed ownership since a promising debut third placing at the Curragh 47 days back and he gave an instant return on Huang Kai Wen's investment by winning the opener at Dundalk. Five to four favourite for this Irish Stallion Farms EBF (C & G) Median Auction Maiden (Plus 10 Race), the Michael Halford-trained and Ronan Whelan-trained Playa Del Puente fought off Empire Line and Thebeastfortheeast by a length and three parts and a length and a half. It was a length then to Will Be King in fourth and they drew on by four and a quarter lengths from the fifth home, Small Town Boy. "I'm delighted that he won for that man (Huang Kai Wen). He bought him after he ran in the Curragh. He picked him out off a video and he came and liked him and made a very generous offer," said Halford. "It was great to keep him but he's going to end up in Hong Kong. It was all about getting him to win and qualified for there. "He's a lovely big laid-back horse, and wants to go a mile already. He has a great attitude and temperament. He's still only a baby and very weak. I think there is plenty more to come from him." (AM & EM)
