Ballygallon Stud Limited's decision to bring back horses from France to race in Ireland in recent times, has paid off handsomely, and today the County Kilkenny-based outfit supplied Michael Halford with a winner when Master Ring bagged the concluding Racing Again October 8th And 9th Maiden at Limerick.

Fourth twice, and second on his last start, over at Compiegne, 76 days back, Dalakhani colt Master Ring was a 12/1 shot for this mile three furlong assignment.

Eleven to ten favourite Burning Sword couldn't live with the sweet-travelling Master Ring from over a furlong out, as the Halford runner raced to a convincing four length win.

Burning Sword held on for second, by a head, from the staying-on Solita

"He is a nice big horse and had nice form in France. We took our time with him and he handled the ground well which surprised me as he is a lovely moving horse," revealed Halford.

"He's very straightforward and has plenty of size about him. It's my first winner for Ballygallon Stud which I'm delighted about."

Ballygallon's other recent wins have come about with Johnny Murtagh-trained horses.

(TW & EM)