Squadron defies drift on debut

Fighter Squadron had proved friendless in the market for his debut in the mile maiden at Dundalk but ran out a convincing winner none-the-less.

Wayne Lordan soon tracked front-running favourite Majestic Jasmine (6/4 into 11/10) on the American-bred colt and travelled well to challenge at the two pole.

The David Wachman-trained charge went on from that rival with over a furlong to run and kept on well when asked for an effort inside the final furlong. Abbey Vale edged a good duel for second with Magnolia Ridge inside the final furlong, to finish a three-parts-of-a-length runner-up.

The John Magnier-owned winner had been 6/1 this morning but was easy to back, opening 9/1 on course and eventually being returned 12/1.

"He appreciated that top of the ground and he'll improve a nice bit," said the winning rider afterwards.

"He did it well and you couldn't really ask for any better."

The winner had cost $360,000 as a yearling and his dam was a Grade 2 winner in the US.

(On course reporting by Alan Magee)