Theobald takes the fast-track qualifier

Theobald ran out a determined winner of the Become The Face Of BetVictor Race at Dundalk.

A fast-track qualifier for All-Weather Championships Finals Day at Lingfield on Good Friday, the mile contest saw Geological lead the field through the early stages in the hands of Rory Cleary.

Kevin Manning kept close tabs on him on Jim Bolger’s Group-placed four-year-old Theobald, and the 8-13 favourite was in the ideal position to put down a strong bid off the turn.

Once hitting the front, he kept on well to hold off the Tracey Collins-trained veteran Captain Joy who ran an excellent race in second to be beaten just a length and a quarter.

Theobald was recording his third win on the Polytrack surface, but it remains to be seen if he will take up his place at Lingfield on April 19.

Ger Flynn, Bolger’s travelling head lad, said: “Kevin said he could have done with going a bit quicker, but he travelled really well. I don’t know if he’ll travel to Lingfield, but the option is there if the boss wants to go.

“He’s progressing well, loves the surface and seven (furlongs) or a mile seems to be his trip.

“He travelled really sweet and seems to be getting his act together. He acts well around here and hopefully it’s onwards and upwards.”