The Joseph O'Brien-trained Cee En Gee picked up nicely in the closing stages to make a winning debut in the mile 'winners' race at Dundalk.

Declan McDonogh held his mount up in the early stages before producing him to challenge between horses passing the furlong pole.

The son of No Nay Never got on top in the closing stages to post a half-length win over 2/1 favourite Bishopton

The 13/2 winner cost 250,000 euro as a yearling and is a grandson of 1,000 Guineas winner Special Duty.

McDonogh said: "The owner (Philip Antonacci) always has a few every year and he has been lucky.

"He's a lovely big horse, he did it well. He never put a foot wrong the whole way round.

"It just got a bit congested the first 100 yards and he was two places further back than where I wanted to be. I had always plenty of horse.

"The second favourite was (rated) 84. He gave me a lovely feel the last furlong and, when I gave him a crack, he got the message quickly and put the race to bed.

"He has the size and he has the mind for it too. He has been away a couple of times and it doesn't faze him, he's got a bit of bottle.

"He is very straightforward to ride for (O'Brien), great to work for. He has been very good to me over the years - the last four or five years I've been very lucky for them. I appreciate the support and I enjoy it there.

“I would say a mile to 10 (furlongs) next year would be perfect for him. He's a horse I like, so he has a chance. Let's see what he does over the winter. I don't see it (turf) being a problem."

(Quotes by Michael Graham)