2 for Berry as Johnston's fav blitzes 'em Mark Johnston's favourite Fire Fighting (Fran Berry up to complete a double after his preceding race win on Lake Champlain) blew his rivals away in the final furlong to capture the featured Listed Carlingford Stakes at Dundalk in fine style. Backers of the 8/11 shot may have been concerned when Berry started to get serious from early in the straight down the outer. However the Soldier Of Fortune gelding was very strong at the business end, and in the end he crossed the line with all of five lengths in hand over Hot Sauce. "It was a messy race. Mark is never one to give instructions but he did say to make sure and get a lead on him," revealed Berry. "He needs cover and enjoys passing horses like he did in Chelmsford off a slow pace. "He said he'd be confident he'd pick up. He got slightly outpaced on the bend but really hit top gear in the last furlong and ran strongly to the line. "He's really enjoying that surface and they could have a bit of fun with him in the winter series. Trip-wise he is versatile. "He was a nice ride to pick up." (GC & EM)
