RACING returned to the Banner County for the first time in a number of years on Sunday last with a new meeting in Cooraclare headed up by well-known bookmaker Dinny Gould.
Sadly, the unexpected death on Thursday of Mikey O’Connor cast a dark shadow over the pony racing community and all jockeys wore black armbands as a mark of respect.
Mikey really enjoyed his son Dylan’s pony racing career from the outset with Templehill Tamara and Tail To Tail right up to him becoming champion jockey on the circuit. Following Dylan’s progression to the track, Mikey remained on to offer advice to the jockeys, lead the pre-race course walks and to assist with the various tracks.
Just three weeks ago, the brilliant Hasta La Vista lit up his day with another victory in Cahersiveen.
To all the O’Connor family, we extend our deepest heartfelt sympathy. May Mikey rest in peace.
Grandstand finish
Racing opened with yet another grandstand finish between South Of The Border and Tiny Dancer. The pair had dead-heated in Dingle and South Of The Border had won by a nostril in Cahersiveen.
The verdict on this occasion again went to the Ciano Goff-ridden South Of The Border who got up in the very final stride to touch off Peter Cremin and Tiny Dancer. These two partnerships have excelled all season, while both jockeys are likely to step up to the bigger pony divisions next season.
It has been a year to savour for Dingle Derby-winning jockey Billy Roberts and the Ballyduff native ended the southern season with victory on Clever Crystal.
Noel Brosnan’s smart pony bounced out in front here and made every inch of the running to see off the gallant Rose Of Clare under the hugely promising Thady Finnegan. This was Clever Crystal’s fourth win of the season and connections are already looking forward to the Christmas meeting in Ballyheigue. Unfortunately, Cillian Brosnan took a fall early in the 13.2hh contest and was taken to hospital for a precautionary check-up. Thankfully, Cillian later got the all clear.
Due to lack of full medical cover thereafter, the remainder of the card had to be cancelled.
The final meeting of the 2025 season will take place this afternoon in Ashbourne, Co Meath at 2pm under the MHPRA.
Results
12.2HH (7F): 1, P. Collins SOUTH OF THE BORDER (Ciano Goff); 2, M. Mulcahy’s TINY DANCER (Peter Cremin).
13.2HH (9F): 1, N. Brosnan’s CLEVER CRYSTAL (Billy Roberts); 2, O. Finnegan’s ROSE OF CLARE (Thady Finnegan); 3, W. McGrath’s LITTLE SADIE (Camillus Byrne).