Ryan moves two clear after double on Ranger

Glyde Ranger was slowest away but quickest home when landing the finale at Dundalk to give James Ryan a double on the card and move him two clear in the race for the apprentice title.

The Tom McCourt-trained gelding gave his rivals a few lengths from the stalls but came with a strong surge down the stand's side rail in the straight.

He hit the front inside the final furlong and went on to post a comprehensive four length victory over 3/1 favourite Forlio

The 11/2 winner was recording his second career success, the other coming at Sligo in August 2023.

McCourt said: "I'm telling the lads one of the days it will fall right for him and that's the way he would win.

"I didn't think he would be giving them a 10-length start, but it shows the ability he has.

"He's always a horse with loads of ability, but he just needs a proper pace to be coming at.

"He's had solid runs and the step up the mile and a-half was going to be a plus for him.

"He's just an odd horse and things have to go right for him.

"We'll tip away with him.

"It is great to get that one for James. Rampage runs here on Friday night and James is on him.

"He has been with me since during school and he is still apprenticed to me. I gave him his first ride.

"He's a very talented rider and very balanced. He is getting the best side of a lot of these photo finishes."

(Quotes by Michael Graham)