Pony racing aficionados have long since been talking about Connor King's ability in the saddle and the County Cork teenager was certainly polished on Harry Trotter winner of the opening Dundalk Apprentice Handicap.

King gave an amazing performance to stay aboard Precious Stone in the early stages, when opening his career account at Leopardstown back in October and here on Harry Trotter he was doubling his tally.

He had to be patient on David Marnane's runner, the split came when required and the 7/2 favourite quickened up well to beat Queen Grace by a length and a half.

Marnane remarked: "He's run a couple of nice races and once he jumped today he was always going grand.

"He'll go to Naas now in a couple of weeks for a good handicap there.

"The Scurry Handicap at the Curragh on Derby weekend is a race we have in mind.

"Hopefully the handicapper doesn't overreact to this. He likes five and six but he's probably best suited to six furlongs." (AM & EM)