Lucky 13 for The Reek in cheek-pieces

Many a pilgrim has climbed the reek (Croagh Patrick, County Mayo) and the Tiger Hill filly with the same name reached her own lifetime highlight to get off the mark at the thirteenth time of asking in division one of the Christmas Party Nights At Dundalk Stadium Handicap.

Equipped with cheek-pieces for the first-time, The Reek a beaten favourite a few times in the past, came there travelling well two furlongs out in this mile event. Champion apprentice Ronan Whelan, having his first ride on the four-year-old, asked for more a furlong out and the market-leader yet again, went on to beat Red Laser by a length and three parts.

Pat Martin trains The Reek, for his father-in-law, Tom Brennan.

The Newrath Stables, Slane, County Meath handler was full of praise for Whelan, saying: "He's a great little fella and I think he's won half the times he's ridden for me this season. He always has his homework done.

"This filly has been a bit unlucky. She doesn't have a change of gear and when you don't do things in a hurry you can get yourself in trouble around here. She doesn't get ten furlongs.

"We put the cheek-pieces on tonight and they worked. I'm delighted for my father-in-law who owns her."

Michael Cleere picked up a 2 day ban for using his whip when his chance was gone on Pesdivo who finished last. (MG & EM)