The Noel Meade trained Curley Bill (14/1) landed the concluding Thomastown Maiden at Gowran today, defeating 1/1 favourite Spirit Of Concorde in the process.

The winner, who landed his bumper on the fourth attempt last November, battled well to shake off the 'jolly', scoring a length and a half win.

Meade, recording his first winner since March 6, later stated “that was the plan! It looked like he was going to win easily one day at Fairyhouse but was finding the trip in bumpers too long. He is out of a half sister to Jazz Messenger so maybe that's where he gets his speed.

“I'm glad to have a winner as things have been a bit dry recently and Curley Bill will probably run in a Flat handicap next.”

Quotes from Donal Murphy