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Eagles flies in to complete great week for Donaghue-Leahy

Jockey Robyn Donaghue Leahy rode her second winner in less than a week. Jockey Robyn Donaghue Leahy rode her second winner in less than a week.
© Photo Healy Racing

The Pat Flynn trained Not Just Any Eagle registered a second course and distance success when winning Division ll of the Racing Again June 14th Handicap at Cork.

A son of Free Eagle, the five-year-old was also crediting his young jockey Robyn Donaghue-Leahy with just the second winner of her career.

Having taken more than 40 attempts to reach the winners' enclosure, the young Cobh woman was paying her second visit to the number one spot in less than a week.

She had only gained her maiden win aboard Tudor Manor at Leopardstown last Friday evening.

No doubt boosted by the confidence which comes from riding a winner, Donaghue-Leahy was good in the finish here as she drove her mount to a half length victory over Tomahawk King

The winning jockey said: "I hoped this lad would always be my first winner but after riding a winner on Friday, I thought I'd never be this lucky to ride another. My family weren't in Leopardstown but there was great excitement at home and they're here today.

"He (Flynn) said to jump forward and if someone wants to come around us, let them work to do it. He was a little keen on the back (straight) and when the leader came back to us, I didn't want to ask him too soon as he can roll around when he hits the front. He did it well.

"I've ridden him five times, had finished second on him three times and now this win so I can't complain and being a (Flynn family) homebred makes it more special."

Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes.

About John O'Riordan
John has worked for the Press Association since 2022. He also writes a weekly column for The Irish Field and is a regular contributor to the Irish Racing Yearbook. He has previously written for the Racing Post, Irish Examiner and Irish Daily Mirror. He has been involved in racing for over three decades; having experience as a syndicate member, sole owner and breeder.