Solo proves tough for Leonard

Free Solo hung on gamely to land the seven-furlong handicap at Dundalk for trainer Pat Murphy.

The Showcasing gelding had been knocking on the door at the all-weather venue and made sure to get his head in front this time.

Killian Leonard produced the 5/1 shot to challenge two furlongs out and he had a narrow lead going to the furlong pole. Volatile Analyst pushed him hard to the line but Free Solo held on to record a head victory.

Murphy said: "Resolute in the finish. We were just waiting for him to land one.

"He's a very good horse, a very genuine horse. He was going to win one eventually, he always runs his race.

"He might be a little bit better on the turf with a tiny bit of a dig in the ground, but we're very happy to be able to pick up one with him.

"They are great owners and are delighted. We had a nice bit of fun with them throughout the year - he was second in Galway and ran a few nice races. A nice, consistent horse and a great, fun horse to have.

"We'll see whether we give him a break or whether we will run him once more up here, but we'll aim for the turf again with him."

(Quotes by Michael Graham)