Shane Foley was seen at his strongest when getting the Jessica Harrington trained Roman Hands back up in the shadow of the post to take the James's Gate Irish EBF Median Auction Maiden at Galway.

Well drawn in stall 1, Foley soon had the thrice-raced maiden into his stride towards the head of the field. Holding every chance turning to face the stiff climb, Roman Hands was tracked by the strong travelling Thunderbear and the Gavin Cromwell trained San Anton

While the former could find no more, the latter led briefly on the long run-in, before Foley galvanised his mount to get his nose back up right on the line.

The hard luck story of the race was undoubtedly third placed Keep In Touch who was repeated denied a run in the straight before staying on to claim minor honours.

Kate Harrington said; "he is an improved horse, seems to thrive and was tough. As soon as the horse came to him he wanted to battle and he keeps improving. We'll take baby steps now.

"It is great for Champion Thoroughbreds who are a big Australian racing syndicate who also have another two year old with us."

Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes