Third time lucky for Tenax in Tipperary opener

The Joseph O'Brien trained Tenax made it third time lucky in the opener at Tipperary, the Foran Equine Irish EBF Auction Maiden.

Last of seven on debut at the Curragh in June, the son of Slade Power put in a much improved performance to finish third on his most recent outing at Fairyhouse.

Sent off the 3/1 favourite today, the Orbis Bloodstock owned colt was settled in second by Donnacha O'Brien.

He was ridden in pursuit of the front-running Backpfeifengesicht from a furlong out, and only reeled that rival in close home, getting up to score by head.

The Johnny Levins trained runner-up was returned at 4/1 under Colin Keane, while Lord Rapscallion (13/2) was another length and a quarter back in third.

The Andy Slattery trained newcomer Cityman was the gamble of the race, and he finished fourth. From early shows of 33/1, he opened on-course at just 6s, before going off a 5/1 chance.

The winner was sold for E43,000 at the Goffs Sportsmans Sale last September.

The winning trainer said afterwards: "He is a grand tough horse and had a good run at Fairyhouse and came forward for that.

"He is probably better going six furlongs but it was a good enough performance to give the runner-up 6lbs as he is a decent horse and ran right up to his mark (74).

"We'll see what the handicapper does and I'd say he could go for a winners' race. He might also end up in that Foran Equine Final eventually as there is a good pot there. He is a nice colt who is improving."

Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes