O'Connor takes another step on Dashwood

Only five did battle but the www.dundalkstadium.com Claiming Race produced an exciting finish. Despite market-weakness Dashwood (7/2) just prevailed under Donagh O'Connor, for trainer Johnny Levins.

O'Connor again donned the Seamus Mannion silks on the seven time previous winner (all cross-channel).

The seventeen-year-old New Ross 7Ib claimer secured his own fourth victory here by getting Dashwood home by a short head from Doc Holliday

Doc Holliday was the one for money and went off 11/10 favourite. He tried to make most but he couldn't get away from Dashwood. Eddie Lynam's runner just came up short after the principals engaged in a compelling duel through the final quarter mile. Antiquus had to settle for the third spot, a length back.

"Donagh told me the last day that he didn't think he'd get a mile with cheek-pieces. He was doing too much," revealed Levins.

"Information like that from a 7Ib apprentice is very valuable.

"I've also had great help with this horse from my assistant trainer Josh Kavanagh.

"He's a horse that's getting on in years so we've changed a few things to keep him interested. At his age it's important that he keeps enjoying the game."

In a broader context Levins reflected: "I've been really pleased with how we've done this year – that's my 16th winner in the calendar year.

"For a lad (O'Connor) that had no pony racing experience – fresh out of school – he keeps stepping up.

"He's an intelligent kid and I think he'll be very special."

This was a claimer so we had a bit of activity afterwards.

Doc Holliday was subject to a 'friendly claim' by existing owner Aileen Lynam at 11K.

Antiquus was picked up for 10K by Jimmy Barcoe. (AM & EM)