Shane Crosse got Son Of Hypnos out into an early lead from stall 11 and the pair dominated the Galway Apprentice Handicap.

The three-year-old gelding, in first-time cheekpieces, knuckled down to his task to score by two and a quarter lengths at 13/2. Harvey Specter (5/1) and Final Endeavour (17/2) took second and third respectively.

“I got a freebie in front,” said Shane Crosse.

“It wasn’t the plan but he gave me a lovely ride out in front and he stayed well.

"There was no pace and I got it handy enough and let him freewheel down the hill. I had plenty of horse to climb into the straight and in fairness to him he was tough and game.

"It is good to have a bit of experience around Galway because it isn't the most straightforward track.

"I was speaking to Matthew (Smith) beforehand and he was quite happy with his chances. It all paid off."

Additional reporting by Eamonn Murphy