Coen collects with blinkered Sun Soldier Sun Soldier (8/1) scored in first-time blinkers at Punchestown today, landing the Nostra Supporting Laois GAA Handicap for owner/trainer Andy Oliver and in-form jockey Ben Coen. Placed in three of his five previous starts, the son of Solider Of Fortune today raced behind the leaders and having led over a furlong out, edged left in the closing stages but held on for a half-length win over Dark Viper. Coen, who partnered two winners during Champions Weekend, reported “he was a lot more alive going down to the start today. He jumped and travelled, even though we went hard, and picked up quite well from the two-to-the-one (furlong poles) to put the race to bed. It was quite a long half-furlong as he had his ears pricked and thought his job was done. It’s nice to get his head in front as he’s been placed plenty of times. “He handles a cut in the ground and I’d say a mile around a bend suits him. Hopefully he can get his head in front again before the year is out. I’d say he’ll never win by too far but has the ability, so hopefully can be progressive from now on.” Quotes from Gary Carson
