Angel On Fire springs 33/1 surprise for local trainer McEnery

Angel On Fire clearly appreciated the testing conditions when coming with a strong late run to get up close home to win the Racing Club Membership Handicap at Gowran Park.

A 12-race maiden prior to today, the Dark Angel gelding had reached the frame on two occasions, most recently when third in a Bellewstown Claimer last month.

However, having failed to back that promising effort up when reverting to handicap company last time, the five-year-old was sent off an unconsidered 33/1 chance here.

Held up by Cian MacRedmond, the Paul McEnery trained gelding was produced with a late run to head leader Manhatten Dandy and Pink Socks late on.

Owner John McEnery said: “A few times we've nearly gave up with him but my brother is persistent!

“We've all ridden this horse at home and he rides like a good horse but he just doesn't always find.

“He's not brilliant but it's a bit of fun coming racing. He stayed at it well today and Cian was happy with him.

“I'll talk to the trainer but there are very few races left so I'd say that's it. I was going to retire him but now he'll be talking me into keeping him another year!”

Additional reporting by Gary Carson