'Mates Rates' takes Wexford's closing race Highlander Addict (5/1 — 11/4) gained a deserved first success in Wexford’s concluding Racing Again 22nd July Bumper today, scoring for owner Glen Norris’ Mates Rates Syndicate, trainer Pat Flynn and jockey David Doyle. Placed twice from four previous starts, the son of Highland Reel today made the running and held on well to score by 1.25 lengths from Cotswold Blue . Part-owner and ex-amateur jockey Glen Norris said “I’m absolutely delighted and knew there was a race in him. He left the race behind him in Tramore in May when things didn’t work out, as it was a messy start and a messy race. “I rode him myself in Galway and in Navan previously but wasn’t fit enough to ride him in Punchestown, as I hadn’t been riding out. David (Doyle) is well able to ride and we rode him differently today. “We’ll go hurdling now and he’s a good fun sound horse who is a pleasure to do anything with. All the lads in the yard love riding him and if I can ride him, then he’s straightforward! “I’m delighted as some friends bought half a share in him. I initially wasn’t sure whether to sell or not but they talked me into keeping half of him, so and it has all worked out. I’m absolutely delighted.” Quotes from Gary Carson
