Ice-cool Russell revels in role in Roscommon gamble

Davy Russell has described being involved in the Charles Byrnes betting coup at Roscommon on Tuesday night as "special".

The two-time Irish champion jockey was ice-cool on War Anthem, Mr Smith and Top Of The Town, producing all three to lead over the second-last, and Russell yesterday revealed his agent Kevin O'Ryan had contacted him earlier than usual to inquire about his availability for Roscommon.

“It was a bit special and it was mighty to be involved in it,” said Russell. “I had an idea something was going on all right, but every time I go racing and have a couple of nice rides people think there's a coup going on. That goes for most days!