We had a winning favourite to start in the Winter Series Awards Day 18th April Claiming Race at Dundalk as Kendred Soul delivered for Johnny Feane and Kevin Manning.

The successful daughter of Kendargent has been in good form at this venue since beginning for current connections this year, and she found plenty for Kevin Manning to reel in Sunset Nova on this occasion.

Backed from 9/4 into 15/8 Kendred Soul stayed on well in the closing stages to put a length and three parts between herself and Sunset Nova.

“She’s done it well and owes the lads (Handbrakes Down Syndicate) nothing. She’s after having four runs — two wins, a second and a third. She’s been very consistent since we got her,” said Feane.

“I’m happy she’s won and we’ll put in a friendly claim.

“She’s versatile over six or seven, and a strong run seven probably suits her best.”

Afterwards there was plenty of business conducted with Kendred Soul (10K) changing hands to be trained by Pat (PJF) Murphy and Zahee (at 5k) to be trained by John McConnell.

There were three claims for the winner.

A.J. Slattery, rider of Sunset Nova trained by Andrew Slattery, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount hung right throughout.

C.D. Maxwell, rider of Robert Guiscard trained by James McAuley, reported to the Stewards' Secretaries that his mount got bumped out of stalls but it was of no consequence.

(AM & EM)