Pigeons flies home under Gleeson Given a patient ride by John Gleeson, Clay Pigeons came from off the pace to land the Pegus Horse Feed Point-To-Point INH Flat Race. Previously in the care of Jonathan Fogarty and successful on his third start at Boulta in December, the Elusive Pimpernel five-year-old was subsequently bought by current connections for 62,000 pounds. Available at 6/4 in early shows for this two mile three furlong contest, the Emmet Mullins-trained bay eventually went off an 11/4 chance in the colours of Paul Byrne. Taking closer order on the outer approaching the straight, he was cajoled along from the two-furlong pole and swept to the front inside the final 150 yards, going on to prevail by two and a half lengths. Dungarvan winner Cloudio (14/1) filled the runner-up spot under Brian Barry for Joe O'Keeffe, while Generous Risk, who was sent off the well-backed 15/8 favourite (from 11/4), was another half-a-length back in third. "He did it nicely and had been doing nice bits of work at home. He is a nice big horse, John was good and confident on him and he galloped well through the line," Mullins reflected. "His sire mightn't be everyone's cup of tea but he has a good pedigree and came well recommended from the Fogarty's. "We won't go to Punchestown but will keep him going for another bumper run." The same connections of Mullins, Gleeson and Byrne, also won this race 12-months ago with Backmersackme. STEWARDS REPORT The Raceday Stewards enquired into an incident at the end of the back straight involving Another Belter, ridden by Mr P.R. O'Neill, and Frankie's Freebie, ridden by Mr M.J. Kenneally where it appeared Frankie's Freebie ran short of room and had to check. Evidence was heard from the riders concerned. Mr. P.R. O'Neill felt he kept his running line throughout and didn't think there was room for a horse on inside. Mr. M.J. Kenneally said he received interference from Another Belter which hindered his chance. Having viewed the recording of the race and considered the evidence, the Raceday Stewards took no further action other than to advise Mr. P.R. O'Neill to be more aware in future. Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes
