Isle Of Sark goes on from his rivals© Photo Healy Racing
Isle Of Sark put in a professional display on racecourse debut to give Joseph O'Brien a double at Dundalk.
The Kitten's Joy colt was the ready winner of a barrier trial over the same seven-furlong trip in July when trained by Charles O'Brien.
He raced prominently in third behind Ferrybank and Taylored before closing on the leader, travelling strongly, at the two pole in this median auction maiden for juveniles.
His stride lengthened as he raced past Ferrybank coming to the final furlong and it was hands and heels in the final furlong from Trevor Whelan as he drew four lengths clear.
The winner went off the 5/6 favourite and finished in front of Always Waitin (3/1). Ferrybank was another half a length away in third at 11/2.
“He's a lovely horse; a big, strong horse and he did that well,” said Whelan.
“He won a barrier trial here. He jumped and travelled really well and I knew I had the rest covered up the straight.
“When he got there he had a little look around but he's a lovely horse. He's still a bit raw and should come on plenty.&rdquo."
On his return to Ireland, the jockey added: "Things started to dry up in England. I had a couple of bad injuries and was nearly out for a year. I struggled to get going freelancing.
"I spoke to Joseph and came back and I was just riding out. I just thought I would keep the licence and see how it went. To be fair to the boss he puts me up when he can and I'm very appreciative of that. I'm happy to be working with a good team. I enjoy being home and the family is with me.
"I had a good career over jumps, I had a couple of graded winners and 190 winners jumping and the rest have been on the flat. I had a Listed winner on the flat."
O'Brien also took the opener with Charmed
The Stewards interviewed A.J. Farragher, rider of Mirage More concerning the fact that he appeared to move across before reaching the marker poles. Having viewed the recording of the race and considered evidence from the rider, the Stewards were of the opinion that A.J. Farragher was in breach of Rule 211 by failing to ride in a straight line until reaching the marker poles. Having taken his previous record into consideration, the Stewards suspended A.J. Farragher for one race day.
Additional reporting by Gary Carson
