Lord Kenmare came with a perfectly timed run to run out a convincing winner of the Crowne Plaza Race & Stay Package Handicap at Dundalk.
Shane Foley found himself towards the rear after the gelding missed the break but he worked his way to the outside in the straight
His mount ran on well to lead inside the final furlong for a two-and-a-half length victory over Send Me Home
"He's always threatened to win one of these and any time he's got fast ground has run well," said trainer Michael Halford.
"The last day here he had a bad draw and Pat Smullen dropped him in - he just got tired in the last furlong.
"Shane did the right thing today by pulling him out and getting a clear run.
Halford also paid tribute to winning owner Brian Gallivan, who made the long trip from Kenmare.
"He drove all the way up on his own today. I'm delighted for him as nobody deserves a winner more than him.
"He's been very very patient and this is his first winner."
