Bella claims fifth Dundalk win

Ellabella produced a fine front-running performance to land the final at Dundalk this evening for Andy McNamara.

Jack Kearney bounced out to lead on the Pride Of Dubai filly and she found plenty with asked for an effort passing the two pole.

The 5/1 shot galloped on well inside the final furlong to post a length-and-a-quarter success over Feature This

Ellabella was recording her fifth career victory, all coming over course and distance.

McNamara said: "We have tried her on the turf and it hasn't really worked out. Dundalk brings her best form out - a mile and making the running.

"She used to be very hard to ride, she is not too much anymore. She used to hang badly and run keen. It was kind of a thing to leave her at it and not get into a fight with her. For whatever reason, she still likes being ridden that way.

"She's not pulling as hard and she fights tough (at the finish). She won well enough. Last year I think she won a nose, a short head and a head, so the handicapper wasn't too hard on her. She won by a bit more tonight.

"She has run out of that grade but has never won out of it, so it will be tougher after this. I think it is really back here again, she is best around this place."

The race marked the end of the winter series at Dundalk.

Joseph O'Brien was crowned leading trainer with 19 winners while Colin Keane was leading jockey with the same total. Tai Sing Yeh was the horse with most points (44) at the end of the series.

(Quotes by Michael Graham)