A Few Bob Short gained just reward for his consistency when taking the Lyrath Estate Handicap at Gowran Park.

The Shane Ryder-trained gelding was placed on all bar one of ten runs since sending into handicaps last year, and made light of a seven months absence here.

The 11/1 chance was brought wide in the straight by Leigh Roche, and kept on well on the stands’ side inside the final furlong to score by a neck. Iron Blue took the runner-up spot with Coolbawn Magic finishing best of all a further neck away in third, while Lady Rosebud completed the places in fourth.

Ryder said, “He deserved it, he's a long time trying. I didn't think he'd do it first time out, I thought he'd maybe need the run but he's tough and he's solid.

“He's been a dream, frustrating, but it's great to have the like of him. You can depend on him, he's limited but he tries his heart out.

“That could crucify him, that's what he is and any few pounds will inconvenience him but we'll see. Hopefully he might improve a little bit. We'll bring him home and mind him and then see where we go.”

(GC & AM)