Rexem stays on well to land Kilbeggan feature The John McConnell-trained Rexem (7/2) was a game winner of the feature event, the Kepak Handicap Chase, for jockey Josh Williamson. There was a good tempo set by Intense Approach, but a couple of blunders ruled his chance out as Williamson edged his horse into contention and got into a battle after the last against the Henry de Bromhead-trained Jasko De Dames, who was determined in the finish. But in the end, it was Rexem who came out on top to land the feature by half a length. Speaking after the race, trainer John McConnell said: “He deserved it. He was a very unlucky loser here two runs ago and ran very well in the ‘Blazers’,” said McConnell. “I have to praise Kilbeggan, they put on such good prize-money. It was very hard not to run him in this race with the prize-money that was there. “He ran on Friday last and he rode out yesterday. I was fairly happy he was going to be fresh enough. “Josh was very good on him and I’m delighted.” On sixth-placed Intense Approach he added: “I’m happy with him because there is still a horse there. I won’t give up on him yet.” (Quotes from Gary Carson)
