The Adrian Sexton-trained Bears Hug stuck his neck out gamely to hold on in the seven-furlong apprentice handicap at Dundalk for Scott McCullagh.

McCullagh went to the front after a furlong on the 17/2 shot but he was strongly pressed over a furlong from home.

The Kodi Bear gelding found plenty when asked and repelled the challenge of Cedar Rapids by a neck, with the fast finishing Tynamite just a short-head back in third.

It was a second career win for Bears Hug who had also scored here over six furlongs just over a year ago.

McCullagh said: "He's horse that runs better fresh. He has strengthened up since the last time I rode him.

"I got a freebie in front and he likes having a bit of room. He went through the motions lovely, quickened up and put his head down and he wanted to win, which is a help.

"I know the horse from Kevin Prendergast's, I rode him before and I've ridden him on a couple of occasions.

"Adrian was delighted with him and he kept him fresh. He said he probably needed the run but he popped up and I think he is a horse that probably needs to be fresh.

"It was a good performance and I don't think it will be the end of him, I think he still has a little bit up his sleeve."

(Quotes by Michael Graham)