Russell gains compensation on Ben

Beautiful Ben just edged a tussle with 20/1 shot French Ambassador after a good duel from the last in the opening race at Wexford, the first division of the Nick O'Donnell Memorial Handicap Hurdle.

French Ambassador looked set for victory when kicking a couple of lengths clear turning for home in the two-mile contest.

Beautiful Ben stayed on to challenge at the final flight however and there was nothing between the pair as they stretched across the track in the closing stages.

The 9/4 favourite found more close home to secure a neck victory at the line under Davy Russell.

The Denis Hogan-trained winner was gaining compensation after an unlucky run to finish second at Roscommon last time where Russell had lost his iron on the run-in.

"That makes up for Roscommon. Denis has done a very good job with him,” said Russell afterwards.

“A little ease in the ground and the fast pace suited him. All credit goes to Denis"

(Quotes by Donal Murphy)