DUAL Grand National winning trainer Mouse Morris became only the fourth person in Tipperary County Council history to be honoured by a civic reception, which took place in Fethard recently, in recognition of his unique achievement of winning the Irish and English Grand Nationals in the same season with Rogue Angel and Rule The World. The reception was attended by about 160 guests including councillors, TDs and special guests Coolmore’s Christy Grassick, vets Demi O’Byrne and John Halley, Mouse’s lifelong friend Timmy Hyde and his son Tim, who bred this year’s Kentucky Derby winner (Nyquist), members of Mouse’s staff and Rogue Angel’s jockey Ger Fox.

Speeches were kept to a minimum but the feeling of affection for Mouse and Jamie shone through. Tom Hayes, former TD, said: “I was in Fairyhouse when Rogue Angel won and the expression on people’s faces after Mouse won was special. He’s popular with everyone. Tipperary is the home of racing and has contributed to so many homes in the county.’’

Mouse then spoke before receiving the civic scroll: “I am really honoured by this and humbled by it.’’ He added later that he was only doing his job.

Poetry in motion at Derby Sale

THANKS to Michael Hickey of Sunnyhill Stud, Kilcullen for a poem to get us in the mood for flashing the cash at the upcoming Derby Sale at Tattersalls Ireland, June 22nd-25th.

Derby Sale

The crowd gathers in anticipation,

The Derby Sale is about to begin.

Horses are here since the weekend,

Vendors and purchasers eye the ring.

Horses neigh at each other,

They rear and buck and spin.

A walk down and trot back,

For now the cat can look at the king.

Grooms ready their stations,

All hands are on deck.

Some bring their own tea and biscuits,

Buyers ready their cheque.

Fashion buoys the prices,

If only Robin Des Champs had some more.

Strong Gale and Old Vic here no longer,

Too many stallions to keep a score.

The auctioneer mounts the rostrum,

The sale gets under way.

Buyers take their positions,

No break now until the end of day.

Michael Hickey Jr.

Derby Gala Ball

AS, not if, the weather holds up, it should be a spectacular night on Friday, June 24th at the K Club when for the third year running the Jack & Jill Children’s Foundation will be the beneficiary charity of the Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby Ball. Since 1997 the charity has raised over €60m for home care for sick children.

Tables are €1,450 for 10 of €145 per ticket. A drinks reception is at 7pm followed by dinner, entertainment and dancing to the Bentley Boys and Tracy Piggott is ringmaster.

Call Edelle Monahan at 045 894538.