After securing an earlier win, jockey Billy Lee completed a double when Northern Sonas triumphed in the Kilberry Handicap at Navan despite carrying top weight.
Previously third in two maidens, the Andy Oliver-trained gelding had struggled in higher-class handicaps this season. Today, he benefited from dropping into a lower grade for the first time.
Positioned behind the leader Preparations, Lee had to work hard to overtake, but once he took charge in the final furlong, the 3/1 chance surged ahead to win by half a length.
Andy Oliver commented, "He’s a big, straightforward horse who thrived in this lower grade and with the step-up in trip. The ground was perfect, and he got a straightforward ride. We’re hopeful for continued progress from here."