Debut Success For Game Soldier of Fortune Gelding

Johnny Blue (4g Soldier Of Fortune - Accordion Lady, by Accordion) dug deep to make a winning debut in Saturday’s bumper at Worcester.

The Nicky Henderson-trained newcomer was sent off favourite under Nico de Boinville and raced in second for much of the way. Leading with over three furlongs left to race, he was ridden a furlong later and was forced to rally when challenged approaching the final furlong. Battling neck-and-neck, Johnny Blue prevailed by a neck on the line, with the pair finished 23 lengths clear of the field.

Bought by Highflyer Bloodstock at the store sales for €70,000, Johnny Blue carries the colours of John Ioannis Neocleous. The son of Soldier Of Fortune was bred by Ian Heslin out of Accordion Lady, who has a two-year-old by Vadamos.