Emcon lands a gamble in Listowel

The well-backed Emcon was produced by Kevin Sexton to land the spoils in the two and a half mile handicap hurdle for five-year-olds plus in Listowel.

The 6/1 shot, from a morning price of 12/1, closed on the leaders at the third last and made good ground to get on terms at the penultimate obstacle.

She grabbed the lead at the last and was ridden out by Kevin Sexton to win by three lengths. Ballyadam Brook who was always to the fore, came in second at 10/1, a short head in front of Black Zero (20/1).

Kevin Sexton said: "Fair play to her. They had her in good form. She had a run in Ballinrobe and she needed it and that left her spot on. I was actually lucky as she was meant to run earlier in the week and I couldn't do the weight on her. Jack (Kennedy) got a fall and was stood down and there was no-one to ride her and they couldn't run her.

"I do (think she can go back over fences). I think she is a lot stronger this year and a lot better. She probably lost her way a bit last year, she had plenty of runs. She won a hurdle here last year and went straight chasing and won her beginners and was running in some real good races and running well so I'd say she'll go chasing again. She's tough and that's what you need.

"They went a nice good gallop, it suited her. She probably wants three miles. She was fairly flat out but she jumped brilliantly and when they steadied it up I gave her a chance to get into it and just latch onto their heels. The one thing I knew she would do is stay galloping."

Handler Willie Austin said: "We were a bit disappointed the other day [withdrawn on Sunday as her rider then Jack Kennedy was injured and a replacement rider at 9st10lbs was not available] but it might all have been for luck!

"She has improved - she's a big mare and was bound to improve. We'll go for another hurdle in a fortnight's time at Gowran next."

The trainer was sporting a sling on his left arm and later revealed "I fell off her a month ago and broke my collarbone!"

Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes