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Punchestown 2024
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Mark Nunan
The Gray Ghost lands Killarney nightcap
The Gray Ghost (left) beats Ballysax Hank
© Photo Healy Racing
The Kate Kearney's (Ladies Pro/Am) Flat Race went to the well supported The Gray Ghost (4/1, from 17/2 on the show).
The Doyen gelding had shown ability in his first two starts and tracked the pace before coming through to head longtime leader Ballysax Hank over a furlong out. The latter didn't fold but Susie Doyle didn't have to go for the whip on her mount who kept on well to score by half a length.
Trainer Harry Kelly remarked: "We thought he'd win the last day but Pa (King, jockey) came in and said he got his tongue over the bit. He is a devil for that so we tied down his tongue today - he has never made a noise but fiddles with it. In fairness to Pa he gave us invaluable feedback.
"We were wicked disappointed the last day as we think he is a fair horse and she gave him a lovely ride today. He is a big baby and is for sale.
"He is owned by my landlords Ray O'Connor and his partner Neasa Haverty, who are friends of mine and I'm delighted for them. It is the second time Neasa's colours have been worn and the first was by a horse which fell, when going to win a point-to-point and was sold afterwards."
Quotes from Tom Weekes