It's another Excelli masterclass in Dundalk

Excelli followed up on his polytrack success of three weeks ago when readily taking the honours in the Dundalk Stadium Winter Series Leading Jockey & Trainer Championship Handicap.

This was his third career victory in mile handicaps on the all-weather. His sole win on turf came in an apprentice handicap at Sligo in June.

Aidan Howard's charge had gone up 8lbs in the handicap after his recent win but it didn't stop him tonight.

The six-year-old gelding was sent off the 9/4 favourite and had the leaders in his sights as he raced in fourth approaching the home straight.

He was pushed along by Michael Hussey to improve into a close third before taking over outside the furlong pole.

A few backhanders saw him streak away from Manorov to win by a healthy two and a quarter lengths. Manorov closed into second but that was as good as it got for the 3/1 shot while Ned's Indian at 4/1 completed the placings.

“He's improving all the time and getting stronger all the time,” Aidan Howard said.

“The lads in the yard have done a great job keeping him sweet. Hopefully the handicapper isn't too hard on him.”

Additional reporting by Gary Carson