Ajou lands Fairyhouse hat-trick I Bid You Ajou made it three wins in the space of just over two weeks at Fairyhouse when landing the Maher Tractor Sales Handicap this evening. The Mark Fahey-trained gelding won an optional claimer here late last month before following up in handicap company a week ago. He went to post 7/2 favourite tonight and disputed early for Dylan Browne McMonagle. Unique Journey bagged the lead after a couple of furlongs but was claimed by I Bid You Ajou a furlong-and-a-half from home. The Shalaa gelding dug deep in the closing stages to repel the challenge of Sounds Like A Plan by a neck. “He was very tough, his form has been rock solid and he loves it around here,” said the winning rider. “He jumps and travels, he’s a very straightforward horse. He does nothing flash but digs deep when you need him. “Every time they were getting to me he was only doing enough and he kept going strong. He hit the line well and it was a good performance. “I think Joseph (Harnett) couldn’t do the weight on him today which was unfortunate for him. Mark was positive and said to just keep it simple on him. He’s very solid. “He’s after getting a bit of a hike after the last day and needed to step forward but he has. Hopefully he keeps on improving but he’s going the right way. “He’s got a great temperament, he’s very relaxed but when you turn him on he’s there for you.”
