Ruby Walsh: Kerry National a reminder that pro sport is about winning. Second is nowhere

What makes sport so compelling is the emotional rollercoaster of highs and lows, and the margins between winners and losers being so tiny and uncontrollable

Ups and downs: Busselton & J.J.Slevin (stripes) jump the last to win the Guinness Kerry National as Hewick & Jordan Gainford (green) part company, all were OK after their fall. Pic: HEALY RACING

Listowel buzzed on Wednesday afternoon and as Hewick surged to the front on the approach to last in the Kerry National, the place was rocking. 

I know more than most that 'could', 'would', and 'should' mean you didn’t, and when he hurdled the last fence, barely getting half the required height to clear the jump, they were the only words anyone spoke on the island.