KATHLEEN THE PUPPY OAKS CHAMPION

Ian Fortune

Such is her talent and the impact she has made in her short career that some would almost describe the display of Droopys Kathleen in winning the final of the Gourmet Island Puppy Oaks as modest, yet she still managed to beat a top-class field in a sizzling 28.05.

Unanimous Roxy and Rosy Cross played their part, making sure this was a contest despite the favourite going to traps at 1-8. Droopys Kathleen came away well but she was challenged in the early yards by Hopes Kitty. 

Unanimous Roxy burst her way into second at this point and really motored down the back straight to stay in touch with Droopys Kathleen but there was no catching the sensational daughter of Droopys Sydney and Droopys Dancer.

Trained by Robert Gleeson for Dylan Browne McMonagle, Droopys Kathleen stayed on strongly to repel the best efforts of Unanimous Roxy by three lengths. Rosy Cross also ran her heart out in third, just a length and a half further back. 

Sponsor Plunket Matthews presents the trophy to Caroline Brown after Droopys Kathleen won the Gourmet Island Puppy Oaks final at Shelbourne Park. Also included are Ciara and Pat Dobbs, Michael Keenan, John McMonagle, Darragh Keenan and Derek Frehill Director of Racing GRI.                  Pics: Imelda Grauer