Punk Poet and Declan McDonogh (near side) pip Chavajod © Photo Healy Racing
The BetVictor Loyalty Club Handicap produced a good finish between the 4/1 joint-favourites Punk Poet and Chavajod with Declan McDonogh just shading the verdict on the former ahead of rising star Jake Coen on the runner-up.
The former champion was always prominent on the gelded son of Power who led after a furlong until being joined by his market rival under two furlongs out. It was hard to call inside the final furlong as the pair raced neck and neck towards the line but Chavajod just edged slightly left close home and Punk Poet scored by a head.
There was a gap of three and three quarter lengths back to Bonnyrigg (9/2) in third.
It was a second win at Dundalk, and a third in all, for the victorious 4-year-old.
Winning trainer Eddie Lynam said: “He got 4lb for the other day for being third, he ran a blinder. The first two pulled a good bit clear of the third tonight so I hope he doesn't get a joke of a rise now.
“He was tough and battled well. He's a good horse, he's not a very good horse, but he's a good horse and he's tough. Hopefully we'll get another go with him up here.”
Quotes from Gary Carson
