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Donal Murphy

Donal Murphy

Just Another winner for Flynn & Donaghue-Leahy

Fri 6th Dec 2024, 20:29

Just Another Eagle (blue) is ridden out by Robyn Donaghue-LeahyJust Another Eagle (blue) is ridden out by Robyn Donaghue-Leahy
© Photo Healy Racing

Just Another Eagle made the breakthrough on her 16th start, as she captured the Now Racing Every Wednesday At Dundalk Apprentice Handicap.

Twice placed during the summer, the Pat Flynn-trained four-year-old finished fifth over the course and distance on her most recent start.

Sent off a 6/1 chance this evening, the Free Eagle bay was soon settled in second by promising apprentice Robyn Donaghue-Leahy, taking closer order from early in the straight.

Pushed along and gaining a narrow lead a furlong and a half from home, the 46-rated victor kept on well when ridden in the closing stages, holding off the late surge of Billie Frechette by a neck.

The runner-up was returned at 9/1 under Robert Whearty for Noel Meade, while 20/1 chance Adaughtersdelight was just a head away in third.

Sent off the 10/3 favourite, Jawharry attempted to make all under Jack Kearney but faded from the furlong pole and eventually finished fifth.

"Once she switched off, that's half the job done. She broke well and switched off - once they do that, you are in with a chance," the winning rider commented.

"I was happy to make it and when something came across and got me covered, even better again.

"I couldn't get over how she battled and battled, and she just stays going - that's what she does. She is all heart."

Just Another Eagle was providing Flynn and Donaghue-Leahy with their seventh success together, a little over six months on from their initial win with Tudor Manor at Leopardstown.

Additional reporting by Michael Graham

About Donal Murphy
Donal graduated from Maynooth University in 2010 with a BBS in Equine Business and since attained a diploma in Sports Journalism from Dublin Business School. He holds a variety of roles in the horse racing industry, reporting for the Press Association and p2p.ie, while also working for SIS and the Tote. From Wexford, he is a keen runner and has completed over 100 parkruns at various locations around the country.