Breslin off the mark, as Condon doubles-up

Andrew Breslin recorded his first winner, and Ken Condon completed a double, as Shanghai Beauty just prevailed in the Newgrange And Ardboyne Hotels Apprentice Handicap.

Successful on her most recent outing at Tipperary last month, the daughter of Jeremy went up five pounds for that win.

As short as 9/2 last night, she opened on-course at 8/1, before going off a 7/1 chance in the colours of Robert Ng.

Settled just behind the leader, she was on terms under three furlongs out, and improved into a marginal lead a furlong and a half from home.

She was ridden from a furlong out as Sweetest Taboo came with a strong challenge, and the two had a good battle in the closing stages, with Shanghai Beauty getting the verdict from the judge.

Just a short head separated the duo at Tipperary last month, and the same margin was between them again this afternoon. A Few Dollars More (5/1) was third in that Tipperary contest, and funnily enough he was again third today, a short head back under Gary Halpin for Andy Slattery. Mr Bounty (7/1 last night and from 9/2 to 4/1 favourite on-course) was a further half a length back in fourth under Sean Davis for Michael O'Callaghan.

Ken Condon, who won the second with In Salutem said afterwards: "You don't often see Jeremy's win over five furlongs on fast ground, and I was really surprised at how well she travelled. The owner wants to retain her for breeding and she will be a nice cross for the future.

"I'm particularly delighted for young Andrew who is our stable apprentice. He's a very diligent lad and a hard worker. He deserves it, and it was a well-judged ride."

Breslin, who is 19 and from Nurney, Co Kildare, added: "I've been with Ken for three years having attended RACE in 2012. He's been very good to me and given me plenty of chances.

"It's great to ride my first winner, although I was getting a bit worried with the delay before the result was called."

Additional reporting by Alan Magee