Tyrur Big Mike in Easter Cup line-up
Tyrur Big Mike, runner-up in both the Ladbrokes Irish Derby and Town View Foods Champion Stake last year, had picked up a slight injury in his qualifying trial around Shelbourne a few weeks ago and it had been decided to bypass the Easter Cup.
However, the dog’s well-being forced Fahy to change his mind. “The injury was only a minor one and it cleared up quickly. The dog is mad at home and has been off the track for seven months. There aren’t too many more suitable events for him at Shelbourne before the Derby and when I got the go-ahead from the vet I reckoned it was the right thing to run him. He is well galloped but may struggle to get the 550 yards in the first few rounds - if he survives. But the races will bring him on quickly and we just want to see him running and he normally thrives on racing.”
Big Mike leads a team of five from the Tyrur kennels which is completed by O’Gorman, Henry, Brian and Carey but there is going to be really high-class opposition. Dolores Ruth will also have a team of five, including Makeshift and the Razldazl team of Jayfkay, George, Lord and Barack. Also among the 48 entries are Thurlesbeg Joker, Fatboyz Tyson, Tote Gold Cup winner Slippery Bob, James Ruth’s Local Deejay, Broadstand Lad, National Puppy winner Deerfield Music, Mozzletoff, Monlesa Alsation, Ballymac Tipp, De Ex Factor. Air Force Ellie, Quick Lee, Whatsupjack, Dirty Old Town, General Dogsbody, Asisola, Hats My Boy and Droopys Jo. The draw for Saturday’s first round will be made this morning.
Padraig Hickey’s Millbankscarface is out of Friday’s Gallivan Murphy Hooper Dolan Juvenile Classic final at Tralee due to a torn shoulder muscle. He was due to run from the outside box and this will now be filled by Rockview Head.
