Five furlongs round Dundalk suits Chiclet well

Chiclet fended off the closing Primo Uomo to land the opening five furlong handicap for Tracey Collins.

The five-year-old mare broke well and soon tacked across from stall seven to lead under Gary Halpin.

She travelled well one out from the rail entering the straight as her rivals all came off the bridle.

Primo Uomo and Conor Hoban came with a strong challenge inside the final furlong and drew alongside the 3/1 joint favourite.

However, she rallied to good effect in the closing stages and was half a length up at the line from the 20/1 outsider.

It was two and a quarter lengths back to Geological in third at 5/1.

“I think Gary's 5lb claim made a big difference and he gave her a very polished ride," Tracey Collins said.

“He gave her a breather when she needed and got her out good and smart.

“She's a very honest mare and loves racing. When she gets it right she gets it very right but she can have her off days.

“Where we go will depend on what the handicapper rates her. She won't come back next week.

“She takes very little training when you get her fit. She's very like her father and has gotten physically so much stronger.

“All the Dandy Man's get stronger with age and she is also like him as she has a wonderful temperament.”

This was Chiclet fourth win over the five furlong trip at Dundalk and fifth career success.

She went up 6lbs in the handicap for winning at Dundalk when last seen in November which was mostly offset with Halpin's 5lb claim.

This was Primo Uomo's first run since being gelded.

Additional reporting by Gary Carson