Piece gains deserved win Ten to eleven shot Period Piece got favourite backers off to a good start at Dundalk when landing the Elusive Pimpernel Claiming Maiden. Pat Smullen chased the leaders in third on the now Jamie Osborne bound Intikhab filly (for 20K), and she led under two furlongs out. Ridden clear a furlong out, the Jessica Harrington trained runner eventually saw off outsider Doppler Effect, Blue Fragrance, and Unchanged. The well-backed Tap Focus chased the principals home. "She did what she had to do and she did it well-although she idled a bit in front," said Mrs Harrington. "It's nice to get off the mark on the flat for the year. We've had a few near misses. "I've nothing in mind for the moment. We'll see what they want to do (the owners)." The Stewards gave permission for Maknificient to run without the declared tongue strap in this race. The Turf Club Veterinary Officer examined Maknificent, trained by M.D. O'Callaghan, at the request of the Stewards and reported the animal to be Post Race Normal. (AM & EM)
