Roche the Ballybrit Prince with a brace

Leigh Roche rode his second winner of the evening at Ballybrit, following on from Golden Spear in the feature, when guiding Intrepid Prince to an easy win in the Arthur Guinness Handicap.

Michael O'Callaghan 's well-backed 7/1 shot, with a visor fitted for the first-time, made most and he was value for more than the two length winning margin that he enjoyed over Dalton Highway

Dalton Highway was the first beaten market-leader on the evening after six races.

"We liked him last year and he ran well one day in a nursery at Limerick. We brought him back in a bit later this year than most of the horses, and he's done really well. He came on a lot from his last run, and the visor also made a big difference," revealed O'Callaghan.

"When we saw the draw yesterday morning, we brought him back out for more practice in the stalls. We had this race in mind for a while, and we had a nice few quid on each-way.

"He's in again over seven furlongs at Naas on Monday but is only 15 in the ballot and may not get in."

Intrepid Prince was supported in from 25/1 in places this morning.

The Stewards requested a report from M.D. O'Callaghan, trainer, as to the apparent improvement in form of Intrepid Prince, placed first, as compared with its recent form. The trainer reported that a combination of the first time application of a visor, jumping off very well and making all, had in his opinion, brought about the apparent improvement in form. Having considered the report, the Stewards noted the explanation offered.

(AM & EM)