A SHORT LOOK BACK AND A BRIEF LOOK FORWARD
by Jackie Cowan - an IrishTrotting.com exclusive
I have to depart from my usual round-up this time, as I only attended five road meetings this year, and I cannot comment on any races at which I was not present.
Congratulations to connections of Stoneriggs Rascal, which was awarded "Road Horse Of The Year", for what, I think, is the fourth time, and to Micheal Duggan, who achieved champion road jockey honours for the first time. Defending title-holder, John McSweeney, had to settle for runner-up this time, but had the consolation of winning the All-Ireland with Morfa Duke at Old Chapel. In this, he gave an inspired ride to the wily veteran, keeping him up with leader, Stoneriggs Rascal. McSweeney landed his telling blow only when it mattered, and the pair sailed for home for an easy win. But McSweeney had also displayed the same confidence at Drimoleague when Morfa Duke came with a late run to overhaul Stoneriggs Rascal.
Michael Duggan achieved his first ever treble at Durrus, but his three charges there, Myross Girl, Today's Decision and Teadies Pride did not complete the season. He was amply rewarded later, though, by his association with Castleross Flyer, the brilliant local bred filly by Perfect Dream out of Hi-Lo's Mathilda; newcomer, Dilly's Oasis, which improved as the term wore on, and Hello Fella.
First time owner, Angelo Hannon, had a great season with Hello Fella, which won a couple of Grade A events, under Micheal Duggan, having been promoted after wins and places in Grade B, and which was fourth in the All-Ireland. Special mention, too, to John O'Donovan, for the success of his charge, Twenty4Seven.
The Six To Follow competition, sponsored by Angelo Hannon, Bookmaker, added further interest to the road season. Congratulations to my fellow-scribe, Thomas Bennett, who, having settled in the middle of the field, began to get closer at the business end, before reeling in long-time leader, John Sheehy. A dead-heat ensued between Deirdre Hill, who won the half-way prize, and Amy O'Reilly, whereas I was an also-ran!
From the five meetings I attended, my impression was that road racing is more than holding its own, with new owners, new horses, and more visitors from across the water. And now it is nearly time for the turf/track season to start.
Best news, of course, it that Wexford 2004 is going ahead. Before that, we have the opener on 2nd May and Whit Weekend, both at Central Track, and the All-Ireland Saddle Championship at Dunmanway on 30th May. To be looked forward to are the re-appearances of Cam's Best, Stoneriggs Wizard and The Blue Fox, to name but three. Wexford this year should be even bigger and better, with an increase in entries from West Cork. August will kick off with Ballabuidhe, and in September, Central Track will stage the All-Ireland Harness. And if the few dates that are, so far, free, remain so, we will all be able to get to Portmarnock and Annaghmore. Looks like a busy summer!