Ger Lyons saddled his first winner of the winter series at Dundalk as Shisha Threesixty scored in the Dundalk Stadium Handicap (division one) under Johnny Murtagh. Bramante and First Friday dominated the market for this extended mile and a quarter event this morning but the former could manage only fifth whilst First Friday blew the start and eventually had to settle for fourth.
However there were plenty interested in backing Shisha Threesixty (like First Friday - by High Chaparral) as well, and he ended up a 3/1 shot from 7/1.
Shisha Threesixty (apparently named after a revolving restaurant in Dubai) made his ground from mid-field in the straight, led a furlong out and kept on well to beat Cave Artist by a length and a quarter.
Of course Ger Lyons is in Dubai and he was represented by his brother Shane who said: "That takes us off the cold list (first winner since Reggae Rock scored here in early November).
"We've always thought a bit of this horse - he's a High Chaparral and is only filling into himself now.
"We thought he'd win his maiden and hopefully he'll go on to better things.
"Damian (Nolan, the winning owner) lives in Paris. He'll be over next month and hopefully he'll get to see this fellow running then."
The Stewards requested a report from Mr G.M. Lyons, trainer, concerning the apparent improvement in form of his winner Shisha Threesixty compared with his previous run here 20th January when the horse finished 8th of 14 runners beaten 15 lengths by the winner Mutasarab(USA).
Mr Shane Lyons, Authorised Representative of Mr G.M. Lyons, trainer, reported that the drop back in trip from one and a half miles to one mile two furlongs and one hundred and fifty yards was the contributing factor.
Having considered the evidence the Stewards noted the content of the report.
(AM & EM)
