One For The Money has proved a frustrating sort for Pat Martin in recent seasons but came back to form when initiating a double for her trainer in the mile and a half handicap.
The seven-year-old mare headed the pace-setting Kerry Way a furlong out, and drew clear under Sean Clearyy for a three and a half lengths victory. 'She lost her way last year, and was becoming very head-strong. I nearly gave up on her but my new all-weather gallop, which is very testing, has really helped her to relax,' explained Martin afterwards.
Confey Lass completed a 142/1 double for Martin in the Jack Of Trumps Racing Club Handicap Hurdle, leading two out under Robbie Colgan and staying the three miles trip really well to beat Mister Kilford by seven lengths.
De Tiger, narrowly beaten by the Aidan O'Brien-trained Devil Moon here eight days ago, gained revenge against another Ballydoyle juvenile when making all under Pat Cosgrave to beat Newton by half a length in the five furlongs maiden.
'It was a bit of a gamble coming back here so soon but it paid off. His experience was a big help, and he did everything right. He may go for the Marble Hill Stakes at the Curragh next month,' said successful trainer Ger Lyons.
Leading claiming rider Keith Hadnett recorded his first victory at his local track when Golightly took the novice handicap hurdle in fine style. Hadnett, whose parents live literally a stone's throw from the racecourse, sent the mare to the front jumping two out, and she drew clear to beat Sudden Interest by six lengths.
'She is a real summer horse, and may go for another two miles handicap at Punchestown next week,' said trainer John Murphy.
Fenella's Link, formerly trained by Mick Channon, got off the mark on her first start for John Oxx when producing a late burst under John Murtagh to touch off All's Forgotten in the nine furlongs maiden. 'She is a light filly who runs freely and doesn't need much work at home. She probably needs another furlong, and we'll see what sort of handicap mark she gets,' said Oxx's assistant Jimmy O'Neill.
Styler put up a brave front-running display to defy top-weight in the nine furlongs handicap, staying on gamely for Kevin Manning when challenged in the straight to beat Fascinating by a head.
Alan Magee
