Punter’s loyalty to Keane pays off

An 83-year-old punter who has “religiously followed’’ Irish Examiner racing correspondent Pat Keane’s tips for years has been rewarded with a €17,400 windfall.

Keane selected six of the seven winners at Cheltenham on Friday, and retired publican Owen Liston gained handsomely for his faith in the top tipster from a stake of €92 — money he won earlier in the week at the festival.

Owen, from Ballybunion, Co Kerry, pulled off Lucky 15 and Lucky 31 combination bets — a rare achievement — and couldn’t believe his luck.