There was Laois success over at Tipperary Racecourse last week as a horse owned by a Laois man turned over a favourite trained by the best in the country.
Strong Link came up thumps again as it won for the second time in just over a month.
Clonaslee native John Rowney is the owner of the winner as it won the O’Driscolls Irish Whiskey Maiden Hurdle at odds of 9/4.
Following up on its win in May in Wexford, Strong Link saw off 15 other runners including the odds on favourite Gorvitho who is trained by Willie Mullins.
The horse claimed the €6,300 first prize and speaking to LaoisToday, owner John Rowney was delighted.
He said: “The horse ran a cracker and everyone thought that Willie Mullins’ horse would romp home.
“But my lad just could through the field like a knife through butter so we are all delighted with the win.
“It was great to have the whole family there to see the win but I have to mention my son Tom who wasn’t able to be there as he was actually hurling in an U-11 match for Clonaslee-St Manman’s against Mountrath.
“Keith Donohue gave the horse an absolutely smashing ride – the perfect man for the job.
“While Ross O’Sullivan is a genius when it comes to getting a horse ready – we have a great relationship with both of them.”
While speaking to IrishRacing.com, trainer Ross O’Sullivan said the intention now is to head to the Galway Races.
He said: “He got the same ride from John Gleeson to win his bumper.
“He’s a classy horse but gets lairy if he gets there too soon and we learned that from his earlier bumpers. He pulls himself up a little bit in front.
“Keith was impressed, and he just needs to tidy up his jumping a bit. He won with plenty in hand.
“He’ll go novice hurdling now and the plan is to go for the two and a half miles on the Thursday at Galway.
“He was bought from Jamie Codd and came well recommended. He’s fine, big, lovely looking horse.”
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