One of Donegal’s greatest sporting achievements was remembered at the weekend to mark 30 years ago when Terry Casey trained the winner of the Grand National in 1996. Family and friends of the popular Downings man gathered to mark the 30th anniversary of his stunning victory in the world’s most famous horse race. His horse Rough Quest surged late in the race under jockey Mick Fitzgerald to claim victory and ensure Terry’s place in history as the first and only Donegal man to train a Grand National winner. But Terry and his team had an anxious 15 minute wait after the race before they could celebrate as the result was subject to a stewards inquiry. Sadly five years after enjoying his great Grand National victory Terry Casey passed away after losing his battle with cancer. He was just 56 years of age. On Saturday his family and friends gathered in the Rosapenna Hotel which is owned by Terry’s brother Frank to remember his proudest achievement. They relived the moment watching the race from start to finish and they also enjoyed a special video message from the jockey Mick Fitzgerald who now works as a racing pundit with ITV. He recalled his memories of the day and his close relationship with the man who delivered the highlight of his career.
