Nowwhatdoyouthink impresses in Cork finale for Hackett

Nowwhatdoyouthink made an impressive stable debut for Tipperary based trainer Ray Hackett when running out a comfortable winner of the concluding Woodlands House Hotel Adare(Pro/Am) INH Flat Race at Cork.

A point-to-point winner for Sam Curling last October, the five-year-old had made a promising debut under rules when fourth in a Fairyhouse bumper for Paul Nolan in January before joining current connections.

Held up towards rear in the early stages, the Joey Dunne partnered gelding moved closer at halfway, getting a dream passage up the inner rail to challenge leader Churchroad Prince entering the straight. Taking a definite advantage before 2f out, the Hackett trained winner stretched clear for a commanding success.

"He is still a big baby and if he had a lead from longer would have been better.

"I received him almost by accident as he was supposed to have been sold having won his point to point for Sam Curling but nothing was happening with the sale so he ran for Paul Nolan in a bumper. I got him after that and he is a lovely horse.

"It wouldn't make sense to jump hurdles now so he'll either go to Punchestown for a winners' bumper or go out to grass.

"The boys, who are local, got a bit of a touch today so hopefully it is enough to hold on to him now. He is a nice one to have and is versatile ground-wise."

Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes.