Milldean Panther returns with 29.55 trial at Shelbourne

Milldean Panther, the Shelbourne 525 yards track record holder, returned to the track yesterday morning for a trial over the classic 550 yards distance.

His time of 29.55 thrilled trainer John O’Flynn who confirmed the unbeaten star puppy is now on target for his first target of the season, the SIS Live Tote Gold Cup on Saturday week.

Said O’Flynn: “I have to say I was thrilled with him. He probably tired a little and appeared to drift a little wide off the last bend but it was his first run since early November and he will certainly come on for the run”.

The dog weighed in at 79 lb which is 3 lbs heavier than his previous racing weight but John said: “he has grown and strengthened up a lot over the winter and he will probably race at 77 or 78 lb this year. We find it very difficult to take weight off him but the trial might trim a pound or so”.

O’Flynn also trialled his other kennel star, Dear Pa, and he also pleased when clocking 18.76 for the sprint distance. He will run in a suitable puppy race.

Entries for the €30,000 winner Gold Cup will close at Shelbourne on Tuesday.