Royal Juniper fends off the chasing pack© Photo Healy Racing
The Wexford Welcomes Racing TV Members Handicap Chase produced, if not quite a blanket finish, then not far off it off with less than two lengths covering the first five home. Royal Juniper fourth over a longer trip at Kilbeggan on his previous start, led on the approach to the straight under Peter Carberry and held off a host of pursuers after the last to get home by half-a-length and the same from Look Don't Touch and Itwasfate
The chesnut son of Doyen, owned by Donal Houlihan and trained by Tony Martin, had won a point-to-point at Broughshane last year and this was his first win under Rules.
"He is a fine big horse, but has just never got the hop of the ball, things haven't gone right for him," said Martin.
"There was always going to be a day like today in him if we were patient enough to wait for it. Fortunately enough it went right for him today.
"Donal (Houlihan) isn't here today but his whole family are, his wife, daughter, son-in-law and grandson are all here so it's brilliant.
"Hopefully he will progress from here."
Quotes from Donal Murphy
