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Gary Carson

Gary Carson

Welcome winner for Rothwell and Enright

Sun 25th Jan 2015, 14:36

Paddy O Dee and Mark Enright Paddy O Dee and Mark Enright
© Photo Healy Racing

Paddy O Dee made the most of the weight he received from his rivals to claim the Sandyford Handicap Chase at Leopardstown.

Mark Enright popped out in front on the Philip Rothwell-trained gelding in the 2m1f contest.

The 12/1 shot was headed five from home by Caolaneoin but regained his advantage before the second last.

The 10-year-old kept on well in the closing stages to post a three-length victory over Rafi De Triana Champagne James sent off the 15/8 favourite, could only finish fourth.

The winner carried bottom weight of 10st 1lb and was getting a stone from the second lightest horse in the race, which was the runner-up.

It was a welcome winner for Rothwell, his first for nine months, and he said afterwards:-

"His owners Oliver and Marie Barden have been so supportive. I've had a hellish season with an awful lot of placed horses. He's had a wind operation which has been a big success."

Enright added:- "My battle with depression has been well documented recently. I'd like to thank my friends and family and Dr McGoldrick for all their support.

"I'm glad that I've got the story out there, and hopefully it can help anyone else that is struggling.

"Talking is the answer. I'm enjoying this (win) where a few months ago I wouldn't have."

(Additional reporting by Alan Magee)

About Gary Carson
Gary started out as a trainee/assistant journalist with the Sporting Life newspaper and has worked in the racing industry for over 25 years. He has been with the Press Association since 2013 and won the Irish Field Nap Table in 2016. He enjoys working with horses and trained his own horse, Mamaslittlestar, to win a point-to-point in 2019.