The Big Dog is a horse who will always have a special place in the Kelly family, from Lusmagh, Co Offaly.

Brothers Colin and Damien own the now nine-year-old. They were brought up in a hurling and racing mad household, much of that to do with their father John, who sadly passed away not long after The Big Dog won his first race on the track.

The two lads affectionately tell the story of how they were with their father, who was in a wheelchair, in the Naas parade ring when the horse was running.

They edged closer to the screen with each passing yard as The Big Dog got engaged in a battle with the favourite.

Jumping for joy

When he passed the line, they jumped around in excitement and who was there beside them only John, who had arose from his wheelchair to celebrate.

He led the horse in that day and the two lads will tell you for sure his life was prolonged a little further by the whole episode. The Big Dog has been a big success since, despite the fact he has been a fragile sort.

He won the Grand National Trial Handicap Chase at Punchestown last year and was fancied for the Welsh National only to blunder early and do away with his chance.

On Sunday, he made no such mistake, and got the better of favourite Ain’t That A Shame in the shadows of the post to claim a big win in the Ladbrokes Munster National.

No doubt John Kelly would have been delighted with such a high profile win.

Trainer Peter Fahey reported afterwards that all the big staying handicap chases will be considered for the nine-year-old, even the Grand National in April.