Rhythm Of Zain in front where it matters© Photo Healy Racing
Rhythm Of Zain won his third nursery of the season when he justified favouritism over the minimum trip at Dundalk.
The 5/2 shot gave 7lb-claimer Jake Coen the first double of his career.
The Dragon Pulse gelding chased the leaders early and was ridden for his effort a furlong and a half from home.
He made stealthy headway inside the final furlong and collared front-running Pepper Streak in the final 50 yards.
He took the honours by a neck from the 15/2 runner-up. The gambled-on War Effort (6/1 - 3/1) was a length and three parts back in third
Trainer Kieran Cotter said: “There is not many horses win three nurseries. His first few runs in maidens weren’t too inspiring so we left him off for the summer and he’s just kept improving.
“His weight is going up so obviously he’s maturing.
“I thought we were in trouble a furlong out as he lacked the pace to lie up with them but he showed a great attitude to get up. We keep the blinkers on him as early on he just wouldn’t concentrate on the job but he’s doing it now.
“The lads are knocking great fun out of him for a cheap horse. We’ll see how he is and he could go for the Birdcatcher. He’s a tough hardy horse and, from what we saw today, six (furlongs) will be no trouble to him.”
Coen also booted home Sunset Nova on the card.
Rhythm Of Zain was successful in nurseries at Naas and Navan prior to today.
Additional reporting by Alan Magee
