Hurricane Twister blows them away

A 12lb hike in the weights for winning at Roscommon on Monday wasn’t enough to stop Hurricane Twister absolutely hacking up in the extended seven furlong handicap at Tipperary.

Gary Phillips, claiming seven, sent him into an early lead and he was well clear turning into the home straight. The pair kept up the relentless gallop to win by nine and a half lengths and reward punters who backed him at 5/1. Susiescot was the other 5/1 joint favourite and she took second, a length and a half in front of Happy Anniversary at 12/1, but in truth nothing got into the 11-runner race.

Victor Clifford, who had his first training success with this horse on Monday, said: “He didn’t surprise me the way he won. He’s always been very fast, but he’s had his problems which we sorted out this year.

“He’s very focused on his work this year and he may drop back to six furlongs next week at the Curragh.

“I’ve seven horses in total, but only two are racing at the moment. I bought four at the sales and if anyone wants to get involved then they can get in touch.”

(On course reporting by Thomas Weekes)