Austin Leahy has been notably 'quiet' from winner's enclosures in recent times but the popular trainer was on hand to explain that absence following the win of his Fantastic Bob in the Harvest Festival 14th-20th September Handicap Hurdle at Listowel today

Ridden by Davy Russell, the son of Big Bad Bob improved to lead approaching the final flight and ran on well to hold off the challenge of Diamondgeezer Luke by half a length.

Co Limerick based Leahy, who was recording his first win since Gra Geal Mo Chroi was successful at Roscommon on June 11 2012, later stated “it's tough because I have to sell any of the decent ones and I'm left with the moderate ones to train.

“I had a two year old (Ellenvelyn) which ran well when third at Cork recently and the phone was hopping for the next few days afterwards. There was plenty interest from America and I didn't have much option but to sell.

“I'm delighted this horse (Fantastic Bob) won today and he might go for a similar race at Roscommon next week.”

By Thomas Weekes, quotes from Alan Magee