Power prevails in opening claimer at Dundalk

Redemptive Power stuck on gamely to land the spoils in the opening optional claimer for Robert Whearty and trainer Gavin Cromwell.

The Holy Roman Emperor gelding was backed this morning from 5/1 into 2/1 and eventually went to post 3/1 favourite in the mile contest.

He was produced to challenge at the two pole and had a narrow lead from Dark Viper a furlong-and-a-half from home, holding that rival late on for a half-length win.

The winner had been fifth in handicap company on his last visit to the course, 12 days ago.

Whearty said: "He ran well in a handicap at the Curragh and had a nice run over a mile-and-a-quarter here previously.

"The race worked out there to suit him and I was just able to edge out and have one go at them - hit the line well.

"I was grinding it out and I got to the line real well there."

When asked about the chances of Fiery Lucy in Breeders' Cup Juvenile Fillies Turf, he added: "She is over there and is going to have a go.

"She seems in great old order at home and we would be delighted if she runs well."

There were no claims after the race.

(Quotes by Michael Graham)