Johnny Murtagh produced a classic front-running ride on Chartres to take the Listed Ardilaun House Oyster Stakes at Galway today.
Murtagh made every yard on the running on the John Oxx-trained filly (11-2) to record a three-length win over stable companion Behrasia, with Mobasher back in third.
Oxx also trained the fourth-placed horse Ridakiya.
Chartres' task was made somewhat easier as the 6-4 favourite Holy Orders parted company with jockey Davy Condon during the race.
Murtagh said: "I think the loose horse helped me as mine was getting a bit tired in front."
"She loves to bowl along in front," added Oxx. "She really enjoyed it today back over a mile and a half with some ease in the ground."
Condon reported that Holy Orders, who was disputing last place at the time, had clipped heels four furlongs into the race before stumbling and unseating him.
The rider was not injured in the fall but trainer Willie Mullins said of the horse: "He may have a slight overreach but he appears to be OK otherwise."