Captain Joy beats Akasaka© Photo Healy Racing
Tracey Collins completed a quick double when Captain Joy claimed the mile handicap at Dundalk.
While champion jockey Joseph O'Brien did the steering on Beat The Ballot in the previous race it was champion apprentice Ronan Whelan on board this time. Akasaka looked set to score when hitting the front two furlongs out but couldn't hold the late surge of Captain Joy.
Whelan got a good tune from the 6/4 favourite inside the final furlong to wear down his rival and record a half-length success.
The winner was following up on his victory here late last month and was continuing a good run for the trainer, who has now has four winners and a second from her last six runners.
“The horses are running well and I must say a big thanks to the owners,” said Collins.
“They have all been very patient as the horses needed good ground and they allowed me to run them here.
“The key to this horse is that he needs a good surface. Ronan gave him a good ride and we'll see what the handicapper does now. If there are races for him here he'll be back again.
“His owner Mr Stanley has been a very good supporter of the yard.” King's Trail who was sent off a 15/2 shot having been as big as 20/1 this morning, faded after cutting out the early running.
(Additional reporting by Michael Graham)
