Rhythm Of Zain and Declan McDonogh (far side) beat Areille (nearest) © Photo Healy Racing
The 4/1 favourite Rhythm Of Zain bounced out smartly from stalls and was prominent throughout when winning the Slane Nursery Handicap under Declan McDonogh.
The Dragon Pulse gelding was joined over a furlong out by the Ken Condon-trained Areille but, with the stands’ side rail to help him, ran on well up the hill to beat that rival by three quarters of a length with the latter's stablemate Keel Bay a further half a length back in third.
The blinkered chestnut had won on handicap debut over this trip at Naas last month before finishing fourth over six furlongs at Fairyhouse.
The opening contest was run in steady rainfall and the going description was changed to soft afterwards.
Winning trainer Kieran Cotter “He's tough and he really ground it out there today back over the five. We actually think he'll stay further.
“I'd imagine he'll go for the Birdcatcher (at Naas on October 31st) now. He was 20kg heavier today than when he won (at Naas) and he was still fit so I think he's probably still maturing.
“He has improved without a doubt and would be entitled to go for the Birdcatcher.
“We weren't sure about the going because he certainly goes on quick ground but like a lot of the Dragon Pulses they are just very versatile.
“He's a right horse to have. We had contemplated putting him in the horses-in-training sale but I think we'll hold on to him now.”
Quotes from Gary Carson
