Hope prevails in Dundalk finale

Cuban Hope came good at the second attempt at Dundalk when claiming the concluding Bulmers Handicap this evening at the Louth venue.

Jim Bolger 's charge was sent off favourite on his handicap debut at the venue nine days ago but could only finish mid-division over seven furlongs.

He was stepped up to a mile tonight and was to the fore throughout under Kevin Manning, pressing leader Isotope

The son of Teofilo hit the front a furlong-and-a-half from home and despite drifting right under pressure he has too much in hand for Isotope in the closing stages, securing a neck success.

The result stood after the stewards had a look at the finish.

Manning said:- “He got his head in front at the furlong pole and he was always holding the second horse. He stuck at it well, and the extra furlong was a big help tonight.

“He should get further. He’s learning the job and I’d be happy with that tonight.”

(Quotes by Alan Magee)