BRAVE LAD A FUTURE STAR

Peter Farrell

Patrick Guilfoyle may have retired two of his star trackers in Good Cody and Explosive Boy last year, but he may have found a worthy replacement as he sent out Brave Lad to win his debut race in the most impressive fashion at Thurles Greyhound Stadium last night.

Running in the opening semi final of the Coolavanny Hoffa @ Stud ON2/3 525, Brave Lad came into the event with a flawless qualifying record and as such, he was installed as the 4/6 favourite for Pat Guilfoyle and John Byrne. Brave Lad, a July 21’ son of Skywalker Logan and Knockalton Emily, could hardly have been more impressive as he took to the track to start what looks sure to be a bright career. Running from trap five, Brave Lad absolutely flew from traps to post a rapid 1.66 sectional and he already had a five length advantage rounding the opener. From here, he excelled down the back and had some ten lengths in hand as he set an explosive gallop into the penultimate turn. It was a case of how far for Brave Lad as he continued to set a relentless pace in the latter stages of the contest and he was eleven lengths too strong for nearest rival, Scania Lad, crossing the line. Given the reputation that Thurles track has for carrying its form into any circuit this side of the water, the time was a blistering 29.18 .20s and this greyhound looks destined to go right to the top. Watch this space!