Track record tradition in the Time Dundalk International continues
Sunday at Dundalk was a huge success with seven horse races followed by 12 greyhound races on a huge dual card with Dundalk CEO Jim Martin calling it a great day.
Photo by Ciaran Culligan Photography
Frank lowers the Dundalk clock
Dundalk Ceo Jim Martin congratulated connections of Ballycowen Frank after the record-breaking victory of Michael O'Donovan's dog in the Time Dundalk International on Sunday.
The traditional and prestigious one-off saw English Derby winner Lennies Eddie make his return to the track after his Towcester triumph, but he was left at the traps and soon trailed the field, paving the way for Ballycowen Frank to strike gold in the €20,000 feature which rounded off a dual raceday at the border venue with seven horse races before 12 greyhound races.
"We had a great day with a good crowd and lovely weather," said Martin.
"The International itself was eventful with Lennies Eddie completely missing the break and Epic Ace also having no luck whatsoever.
"Meanwhile Ballycowen Frank, who had exploded from traps (3.83 split), streaked down the back straight leaving Ballymac Ralf and Singalong Polly unable to get close to him. He crossed the line five lengths clear of Ballymac Ralf with Singalong Polly a further three lengths-plus back in third.
"The winning time of 29.26 helped explain the dominant performance we had witnessed as Ballycowen Frank smashed the track record of Droopys Verve's - a 29.39 run - which had stood since the Angela Harrison's don won the Dundalk International in 2018.
"On his previous run on June 5, Ballycowen Frank had broken the 550yd track record in Tralee so we are talking a top-class performer here and worthy addition to the Dundalk International.
"Last night was actually the sixth time in the 58-year history of the Dundalk International that the winner has lowered the track record in winning the race - Lisglass Lass in 1993 for Francie Murray, Dynamic Fair in 1996 for Patsy Byrne, Droopys Electric in 2006 for Pat Buckley, Droopys Roddick in 2016 also for Pat Buckley, Droopys Verve in 2018 for Angela Harrison and now, in 2026, Ballycowen Frank for Michael O'Donovan."
