Castle Guest produced a game front-running performance to land the 'Ash' Apprentice Handicap at Leopardstown.

Conor Hoban found a willing partner in the Rock Of Gibraltar gelding, who stuck on well in the closing stages. Golden Silence came through to chase him hard inside the final furlong but could only get within half a length at the line.

The 5/1 winner hadn't been beaten far on his last two starts including when third in the controversial Killarney contest awarded to Shalaman.

“The drop of rain helped and the drop back in trip. He also had a first time tongue-tie so it was a combination of things,” said Halford.

“His last two runs were good. He's honest, stays and did it well.”