The Ger Lyons-trained My Laureate proved too hot to handle for her rivals when blazing a trail to land the opening Crowne Plaza Hotel Dundalk Race on the all-weather tonight.

Gary Carroll made the most of his low draw on the Rajj filly as she bounced out quickly to lead in the five furlong contest.

The 8/1 shot (backed from 25/1 this morning) was sent for home over a furlong out and galloped on strongly in the closing stages to post a four-length success.

5/4 favourite Urban Beat stayed on to take second without ever looking a danger.

The trainer's brother and assistant Shane Lyons said afterwards:- “Gary got off her and said she is so professional.

“She's been working like that and is a very good workhorse at home.

“She's very ground dependent so we waited for this. A couple of her previous runs were on good ground but that's even slow for her. Gary knows her well and said she can't have it quick enough.

“She goes for the Mercury Stakes next. If she gets a good draw and everything is in her favour she has a good chance of getting black-type, which is imperative for her.”