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Will Do finally lands bumper under inspired Gleeson ride

Will Do and John Gleeson win the Jim Ryan Racecourse Services Pro Am Flat RaceWill Do and John Gleeson win the Jim Ryan Racecourse Services Pro Am Flat Race
© Photo Healy Racing

Cheltenham bumper winning jockey John Gleeson was seen at his brilliant best when getting Will Do up close home to finally get his head in front in the concluding Jim Ryan Racecourse Services(Pro/Am) INH Flat Race at Cork.

A rather frustrating sort up until now, the Gordon Elliott trained six-year-old had been placed on each of his four starts under rules but always found at least one too good. In his defence, he had run in some strong races but it was still disappointing that he hadn't won before now.

For much of this contest, it looked as if he would again have to settle for minor honours as Ballystone made the best of his way home but Gleeson conjured up one last thrust from the Gigginstown owned gelding at the line and he just prevailed.

Winning rider Gleeson said: "he is a good staying horse and it is good to get him off the mark in bumpers. He had run well each time in bumpers but hit the cross-bar so it was nice to get one under his belt.

"He would strike you as more a staying chaser in time and three-miles over fences will be his forte."

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.