Ossie's Lodge and John Gleeson © Photo Healy Racing
Ossie's Lodge (11/8) sent favourite backers home happy from a rammed Down Royal when landing the bumper under a patient steer from John Gleeson.
Third in a Listed bumper at Limerick on his previous start, owner John Breslin's homebred son of Tamayuz had most of the field in front of him when turning for home on the inside. Gleeson gradually improved his position and moved his mount out into the clear travelling best over a furlong from home. Soon in front, he only needed minimal assistance in the closing stages to beat Perfect Nelson by four lengths.
Tony Martin said: "He has always showed us that he is a good horse. He has plenty of speed.
"There is only one winning post, no point in being in front at half-time or with 10 minutes to go!
"He ran in a Listed bumper and we knew he would come on a lot from that. It was worth going that route with him. We'll see what way he matures, he is only a four-year-old.
"He's a good-looking horse and John bred him and has a few more of the family at home. It has worked out really well."
Quotes from Michael Graham
