Burke makes perfect start in Potts job

Johnny Burke got off to a perfect start in his new job when partnering Loosen My Load to success in the Ryans Cleaning Chase at Galway this evening.

The 18-year-old rising star landed the plump position as number one rider to owners Alan and Ann Potts this week and got off the mark on his first ride since being appointed.

The Henry de Bromhead-trained gelding was prominent throughout in the 2m6f contest and battled it out with 25/1 outsider Armaramak turning for home.

The 3/1 shot stuck on well in the closing stages to post a three-and-a-quarter-length victory. Quantitativeeasing sent off the 9/4 favourite, could only finish fourth.

Loosen My Load had run well at the festival meeting here when fourth to Jackonslady but had been well beaten at Killarney since.

Burke was delighted to make a winning start and said:-

“He was a pleasure to ride. He jumped and galloped and did everything right. He probably knows more about the jumping game than me.

“It's brilliant to ride that winner and I'm delighted to get the new association off to a good start.”

Trainer de Bromhead added: “Johnny's a good young guy and gave him a super ride.

“We had an offer for this horse to be sold but Alan said to run him here and it was a great call by him.

“I'm surprised by how well he saw out the trip and that ground is so important to him.”

(Additional reporting by Alan Magee)