Port Augusta made it two wins from as many starts at Dundalk when following up a debut success on the polytrack last month by taking the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Median Auction Race.

The Willie Browne-trained colt was a bit keen early on but was soon settled in by Seamie Heffernan who galvanised the well-backed 100/30 shot to challenge inside the final furlong.

The son of Zoustar responded gamely to Heffernan’s urgings to get the better of English raider Finbar Furey by a neck.

Another recent course winner Bergamasco was a further length and a quarter away in third.

Browne's brother Michael said, "It was a nice performance because the second is rated 95.

“We think he's a very good horse, a good tough horse with a good attitude. We like him a lot. I'd say he'll go further as well.

“There was a winners race here in a week's time and we were tempted to wait because the other horse was so highly rated but we had a go at this one.

“He'll probably be sold now. He's a beautiful looking horse and he's by the right sire as well. We're delighted with him.”

Quotes by Gary Carson