WEXFORD handlers kept a tight local grip on the prizes at Ballycrystal last Saturday with six of the seven races being claimed by horses trained in the Enniscorthy environs, including in the day’s centrepiece, which saw the first mares’ open of the new season being run.

Although just four horses faced the starter, the race was certainly not lacking for star power, with two of the leading mares of recent seasons, Longhouse Music and Sliabh Mhuire Lass, crossing swords once again.