"He stuck his head out well in fairness to him. He probably learned a lot from the last day when he had the visor for the first time. He jumped good and travelled well," said winning rider Ronan Whelan after he'd landed the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Maiden (Plus 10 Race) aboard Patrick Prendergast's War Hero at Dundalk.

Well-backed favourite Bella Signora (2/1), and War Hero (9/2) got close as they fought out an exciting battle, and there was just a short head between them at the line.

They left newcomer Noble Kingsway (33/1) three and a quarter lengths back in third, whilst a further length back in fourth was second market choice, Snow Patch

"He's a horse that stays further so when I did get into a battle I always knew that I was going to hit the line well. Hopefully he'll progress from this and be a nice horse for next year," added Whelan.

C.P. Hoban, rider of Roland Song trained by W.J. Martin, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount hung right.

C.D. Hayes, rider of Downtown Diva trained by Jack W. Davison, reported to the Stewards' Secretaries that his mount hung right.

The Stewards enquired into possible interference in the closing stages involving War Hero, ridden by R.P. Whelan, placed first and Bella Signora, ridden by W.M. Lordan, placed second.

Evidence was heard from the riders concerned.

Having viewed the recording of the race and considered the evidence, the Stewards made no alteration to the Judge's placings and took no further action.

R.P. Cleary, rider of Flemings Hill trained by Garrett James Power, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount hung in the straight.

(AM & EM)