The judge gad to split them in a three-way photo after the mile handicap at Dundalk with The Lock Master gaining the narrow verdict. Big Bad Billy Bob Historic Occasion and the eventual winner had battled it out from over a furlong out.

It was the Michael Halford-trained gelding who just had his head in front at the line after getting a strong drive from Shane Foley.

"He had a chance on his Wexford run last week when he finished on the heels of them," said Halford.

"I told Shane to pull him out wide as he finished really well at Leopardstown one day when he was wide.

"He battled well and I'm delighted for the lads (Four & More Syndicate). It's their third horse with me and they are a great bunch.

"They've been wonderful supporters the last few years and it's their first winner so they'll enjoy that.

"He could run again at Tipperary next Thursday."