Maarek was produced with a well-timed run by Wayne Lordan to claim the Joe McGrath Handicap at the Curragh.

David Nagle 's charge settled mid-division early in the six-furlong contest before taking closer order at furlong pole.

English raider Murura (7/1f) had hit the front at that point but couldn't hold the late surge of Maarek.

Lordan got his mount to the front inside the final 100 yards to record a length success.

"That was super. He deserved to get a premier handicap as he's been knocking on the door," said Nagle.

"Wayne was absolutely super on him. We'll find a Listed race for him now. There is one over six here in a few weeks (Waterford Testimonial October 9th).

"He's a typical Pivotal in that he wants soft ground."

It was a second successive winner for the sire, who was also responsible for Nephrite in the opening juvenile maiden.

Gary Carson