En Or and Ben Coen green and orange win the Fairyhouse Rated Race from Hell Bent © Photo Healy Racing
Trainer Tony Martin kept local punters happy when his En Or got up close home under Ben Coen to win the Fairyhouse Summer BBQ Rated Race.
With the absence of leading fancy White Caviar the race took on a somewhat different complexion but the Martin trained five-year-old was a well backed 11-10f to take full advantage.
Ben Coen tracked the front running Hell Bent for much of the contest before moving into second to deliver a challenge turning into the straight.
Travelling easily to the 2f marker, Coen had to get lower in the saddle at that point, as the Jessica Harrington trained leader found plenty in front.
It was only inside the final 150 yards that En Or drew level, eventually going away to win by a length-and-a-quarter.
Tony Martin said, “After Limerick I wasn’t too confident that he would get the trip but he toughed it out well. He knuckled down well the last furlong which was great.
“He’s a horse that carries a fair bit of condition and will mix it between the Flat and hurdles.
“John Hartnett (part owner) and his family are here today but are heading back to American tomorrow.”
Additional reporting by Alan Magee
