Washington Shines at Fairyhouse
Washington made his trip across the Irish Sea worthwhile, clinching the Bar One Racing Handicap Hurdle at Fairyhouse in commanding fashion. Trained by Harry Derham, the eight-year-old entered the Listed event as the 4-1 favourite under Paul O’Brien, carrying a bottom weight of 10th 4lb.
Travelling strongly throughout, Washington powered clear in the closing stages to win by five lengths, besting Enniskerry, trained by Barry Connell. The victory marked a career highlight for Derham.
“This is the biggest race I’ve won so far in my career, and it’s very satisfying,” said Derham. “We had this race in mind for a while, and everything fell into place. Very rarely does a plan come together like this!”
The win, in a valuable contest, highlighted Washington’s resurgence after a year off and underscored Derham’s strategic planning.
History Of Fashion Triumphs in Porterstown Handicap Chase
History Of Fashion made amends for his narrow defeat last year by winning the Bar One Racing Porterstown Handicap Chase for trainer Pat Fahy. With Harry Sexton claiming 7lb in the saddle, the 10-1 shot battled bravely to secure a one-and-a-quarter-length victory in the Listed race.
Fahy was thrilled with the gelding’s effort, crediting his syndicate owners for their support.
“He loves Fairyhouse, and the drying ground made all the difference,” said Fahy. “Last year, he ran a great race in second, and this year he went one better.”
History Of Fashion’s form and consistency at Fairyhouse was key, as he also boasts a strong Irish National performance, finishing fifth last season.
La Malmason Bounces Back in Irish EBF Mares Handicap Chase
After undergoing surgery for kissing spines, La Malmason returned to her best with a four-length victory in the Irish EBF Mares Handicap Chase for trainer Gavin Cromwell and jockey Keith Donoghue.
The 10-1 shot demonstrated significant improvement in her jumping, impressing Cromwell.
“The surgery has clearly worked. She was making mistakes last season, but today her jumping was excellent,” Cromwell said.
Future targets could include the Thyestes Chase or even the Irish Grand National, showcasing her potential to compete at higher levels.
Koktail Brut Wraps Up the Card
Koktail Brut (15-8), trained by Gordon Elliott, closed out the Fairyhouse card with a win in the Bar One Racing INH Flat Race, continuing a strong day of racing at the track.