Twister and Hurricane warnings for Longford

Even by their own lofty standards, the Guilfoyle family kennels in Moneygall has struck an astounding run of form over the past months which has seen them competing for major honours on many fronts and nowhere was that more evident than on Friday when claiming both semi-finals of the prestigious Longford Derby.

Both the Pat Guilfoyle trained challengers are owned by prolific Thurles breeder Paul Scally and claiming the opening semi, Cabra Hurricane (Kinloch Brae/Cabra Ebony) retained his unbeaten tag in the event when overhauling main market rival Budgie Marbh in a hugely game display.

Blessed with exceptional early pace, he proved that a lead was not essential when rushing up on that rival’s inside at the bend following only a moderate start from Trap 5 and narrowly headed along the back-straight, his drive for the lead on the inside at the third bend ultimately secured victory, and the elimination of Budgie Marbh, as he would repel the strong late finish of Fahey Ripley.

Posting 30.06 (-20) for the 550 yard trip, he will enter the final as one of two unbeaten runners and with some fast early pacers eliminated at this stage, looks assured to make a bold bid for the €10,000 winner’s prize this Friday.

 

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