Straight Talking
This column reflects the personal opinions of Michael Fortune and does not necessarily reflect the thinking of the Irish Greyhound Board.
Derby Tests Clear
The confirmation by the IGB on Monday that the samples taken from the six Irish Derby finalists have all tested clear will, no doubt, come as welcome news for most involved in the industry.
Unfortunately, however, it will probably be bad news for a small number of people out there who have been spreading vicious rumours over the past week – indeed, over the past couple of months.
Last week the phones started ringing with the message that a prominent Derby finalist had tested positive and would be disqualified. Mind you, this also occurred in the aftermath of the Champion Stakes final – indeed the stories were doing the rounds before the tests could even have been completed!
Last week I was assured on a few occasions that there had been a positive test. Thankfully, these vicious rumours have again been proved to be way off the mark. It all begs the question – why are there so many begrudgers out there hoping for the negative outcome at all times?