DERRYLIN-based farrier Darren Timlin (44) has one of the largest harness racing strings in Ireland with a remarkable 18 horses in work, with 12 of them at a racing age.

Darrren alternates between a sand track at his own house and can go away for fast work as well. In recent seasons the Timlins obtained great results from Epsom De Corvees and the skewbald See The Stars.

“He could easily pace 1.59 but he can gallop if the starting car takes off too slowly. I’m breaking a nice two-year-old he sired.”

Son Luke (20) has been complimented for his steady hands and is much in demand for fast work at Annaghmore.

“I have a smashing barn full of well handicapped horses, including Oakwood Armani. I can’t wait for the racing to start (season is due to commence on 30th April at Annaghmore).”

Horses:

Blazin Hanover

4yo h Captain Treacherous - Burning Point

He was bred at the finest harness stud in the world and he has the looks to match. He is owned by David Curtin, a real enthusiast. We swim him in Loch Erne as we do with a lot of horses. We took 60 straws from him recently for the breeding job. I think he is very talented.

Glorious Lou

3yo f (USA). Sweet Lou - Glorious Princess

Some Americans have been trying to buy back the dam, as her brother has since clocked 1.47. She was a real handful to get settled but she is very hardy. She has stopped her play-acting now.

Play With Your Heart

3yo f Shadow Play- Six of Hearts

She is a nicely gaited filly and should pick up a maiden before taking part in the classics. Sooty Johnson of England imported her ‘in utero’.

American Rogue

5yo g Rogue Hall - American Beauty

Everybody loves a nice grey. He would heave his backside at you in the cart most days, but it’s only playfulness. He is a Grade F with five beaten runs ‘in the bank’ as such. I think he’ll be a nice grass horse.

Epsom De Corvees

9yo g Quicker Jet - Raya des Corvees

Money would not buy him. He has been some breadwinner here. Of all the ‘E’ generation that started together he was the one that lasted. Myself and Luke will share the drives. We feel he’s better on a hard track, a turf course blunts his speed.