Durnin riding high in USA
1993
DROGHEDA has produced one or two star jockeys down the years, Cumbria based Barry Murtagh one to shine in recent times, but a former Irish apprentice from Pearse Park is now producing his best form in the United States.
Andy Durnin, son of Joe and Mary of 208 Pearse Park, has picked up two major wins since January and on this form, could be set for a few more winners before the season ends.
Andy was first past the post on My Name is Russ at the Garden State Park in late January and followed it up with a second winner at the Penn National Course in Grantville in February.
The 24 year old began his career with John Oxx at the Curragh and enjoyed a couple of great wins. Problems with his weight put paid to his plans but he went to the USA and worked hard at keeping himself at the 8st 4lbs threshold.
Racing for owwner/trainer Zanetta K Gibellino, he also enjoyed GAA in his day, playing for the Oliver Plunketts and at under 14 level making it to a county final, only for John Osborne, now of Louth, to scuttle his team's hopes.
He also boxed with the Lourdes Boxing Club, making a Leinster final.
