Kuwait Direction (6/1) returned fresh from his Christmas break today when registering a third career success in Dundalk's Crowne Plaza Dundalk Race & Stay Handicap (div I).

The son of Kodiac was a beaten favourite at the track when last seen on December 7 and today, under Gavin Ryan, held on for a three-parts of a length win over No Speed Limit

Winning trainer Keith Clarke said "he's pretty straightforward and I think the trick was he got a holiday over Christmas.The last day he probably just didn't fire, we freshened him up and planned for this a few weeks in advance.

"He's tough to pass and when we are working him, he likes to be in front. The other day I was very impressed with him in his work and thought he was in great order. He has won twice here and loves it."

Regarding the Alistair Porter and Phoenix Bloodstock Syndicate-owned winner, Clark added “another man Paddy Caulfield, who has been with me for a long time, has just bought a leg in him and is over the moon. He has gone through a lot of illness but this will give him a great kick.”

Quotes from Michael Graham