Clock Ticking On County's Career

Newcastle Herald

Friday September 5, 2008

THE PROVINCIALS GEOFF WILSON and CHRIS ROOTS

THE career of Newcastle racing warrior County Tyrone could be on the line tomorrow week.

The 10-year-old will run in the Kingston Town Stakes (2000 metres) at Rosehill and must show his legendary spirit for his amazing career to continue.

County Tyrone finished last in the Premier's Cup at Rosehill (1800m) at his latest start, and trainer Kris Lees, right, did not have his usual optimism about his old mate.

"I will say I was disappointed, but Jim Cassidy got off the horse and said he felt OK and will run a place next start," Lees said. "I decided to scrub plans for the Wyong Cup [2100m] and start him in the Kingston Town Stakes.

"He is such a tremendous horse that if he did show again he is not up to his old form, then we would have to think about calling it a day with him."

County Tyrone, which has won three group 1s among his nine wins in 85 starts, has been an amazing performer.

He has raced every season since having his first start at Newcastle on June 9, 2001, when he was 11th in a field of 12 in a 900m scamper.

© 2008 Newcastle Herald

Back to News Index | Back to Home