The future looks bright for Unorthodox

Wearing the Universal Bloodstock Syndicate silks carried to victory recently in the Birdcatcher Nursery at Naas by Captain My Captain, Connor King surprised most, on 25/1 newcomer Unorthodox in the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Median Auction Maiden at Dundalk.

The three-year-old, like Breeders' Cup Classic runner-up Toast Of New York, is by Thewayyouare, and he arrived down the inner to touch off the strong even money favourite Dalewari by a neck.

"He's very green and he'll only improve with time. It's nice to get one first time out," remarked King.

Meanwhile later by phone winning trainer John Murphy stated: "He's a fair horse but he's been a bit slow to come to hand.

"He'll make a lovely three-year-old and he could be a horse for the UAE Derby. He's got an all-weather pedigree. He could be anything."

P.J. Smullen, rider of An Riocht trained by P.J.Prendergast, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount hung badly throughout.

(MG & EM)