History was made at Powerstown Park today when a second Derby and a second Oaks got underway. These ones were for 2019 whelps which missed out when last year’s National Meeting was cancelled due to the Covid 19 lockdown. Approximately 40 of the runners between both Classics had booked their ticket over 12 months ago so for connections of those runners it was a long wait to get to Clonmel but all appreciated the decision of the ICC Executive to accommodate them.
It was a much better day than yesterday for the Field family who saw both their runners Kyle Karl & Kyle Raimund qualify impressively for the second round of the Boylesports Derby 20 21. (Although unfortunately we understand Raimund will not be able to take his place in the second round tomorrow). Brendan Matthews had his two ‘Wallace’ dogs progress and East Donegal’s Dessie Tighe will be delighted with his three flags (two in Oaks and one in Derby). The locals too had plenty to cheer about with Village Robin (Oaks) and Tree Top Henry, Blueway Wonder & Dionysus (Derby) all coming back tomorrow. However it will be a long road home to Listowel for the ‘Jet Lads Syndicate’ who came with two live chances of outright glory in the Derby with their ‘Bedford’ dogs only to succumb to runners from the Owen McKenna kennels in quick succession, Foxhunter and Catunda Niall.
Without doubt the eye catcher in the Horse & Jockey Hotel Oaks 20 21 was Aldanite and she is a worthy favourite after two rounds. Her second round clock was the fastest clock at Clonmel today. She won’t have her own way against Ballymac Floral but should progress, with Positive Note looking like her biggest danger in the bottom half of the draw. The top half is more difficult to call because there were plenty of thrills n spills for the likes of Barrack Luna, Knockout Model and Rathduff Reba. Matt Harte certainly will have a big say with his runners Masonbrook Ivy & Knockderk Maid and Finn Heather for the aforementioned Dessie Tighe is not out of it either.
The second best clock today was recorded by Go Home Ourthat but he had to pull out all the stops to hold off the fast finishing Noted Rambler. Hot Dog was also involved in a tight buckle with Barrack Archie and Tree Top Henry took a tumble after he ran well to oust his kennelmate Brave. Unlike the Oaks it is almost impossible at this stage to predict the eight that will make it through to the last day, never alone the winner. However when the action continues tomorrow Sunday it will commence with this Boylesports Derby for 2019 whelps and the picture will become a little clearer hopefully.
Coursing starts on Day 3 (Sunday) at 11.00am and we can confirm that Island Rhythm will also be absent from the Horse & Jockey Hotel Oaks for 2020 whelps.
For Results, Clocks & Latest Prices go to Quick Results.
Our photo by Imelda Grauer includes Fergal Hehir, Niall Heaney, Rory Henchy, Brian Hannon, Brian Culligan, Pat Hogan, Michael Daffy, P Ward and Paul Clune all from Co Clare and enjoying today’s coursing.