Gutsy Guy gets back to winning ways

The Saturday programme at Thurles last weekend saw many local kennels in action on a card which housed the annual Nenagh Coursing Club Buster Fundraiser and with much support for all, the night returned no less than four winners to celebrate as trainer John Byrne led the way with a high class double.

First into action in the featured Open 330 yard contest, the Eamon O’Brien & John Byrne owned Knockalton Guy (Cracking Man/Turbine Tulip) returned to winning ways when forced to pull out all the stops for a short-head verdict in a thrilling contest.

Missing his break in each of his last two outings, the usually consistent sprinter was on somewhat of a recovery mission on Saturday and although not breaking to his best from Trap 4, he would race within a length of the lead in the initial exchanges before his powerful early pace would see him attempt a daring run between a brace of pacesetters on the approach to the first bend.

Bravely striking the front while racing in tight quarters, Knockalton Guy would forge a one length lead before reaching the home-straight but he would be forced to repel the late challenge of Tipperary Cup finalist, Our Lovely Tune, in a protracted battle to the line. Almost joined in the shadow of the post, the Byrne star was not for passing however and gamely repelling the challenge, he would record the seventh victory of his career with five of those coming in Open class, while posting a smart 18.04 (-10) for the 330 yard trip.

 

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