EVEN the most astute of punters would have had difficulty in bringing home the bacon yesterday as Ireland's finest racing pigs came under starter's orders. Pigs did fly at Augher, Co Tyrone, clearing jumps with all the athleticism of ... Miss Piggy!
The porcine steeplechase was the star attraction of the Clogher Valley agricultural show and trainer Walter Shortt was immediately; inundated with invitations to bring his 20 racing pigs to similar events all around the country.
Threats of an animal rights protest failed to materialise and allegations of cruelty were firmly dismissed by a veterinary surgeon and an Ulster Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals inspector.
Bookies made a killing as unfancied Lester Pigott trotted home ahead of favourite Richard Dunpiggy in the first race, and then a 10/1 outsider, Sizzler, beat hot tip Smoky Bacon by a snout. There was further grief for disgruntled punters when Perky streaked home ahead of the heavily backed Pinky and Porky sliced through the opposition, leaving Rasher and Douglas Hogg in his wake.
The 14 week old pigs, a three way cross of Duroc, Large White and (predictably) Landrace breeds, appeared to enjoy scurrying around the 100 metre course, cheered on by enthusiastic racegoers, with the theme music from Chariots of Fire ringing in their little pink ears.
"I've been working with pigs all my life. They are very positive, intelligent animals and they love to get out and run about," said Mr Shortt, who organised the charity event, with proceeds going to cancer research.
"They certainly seem to enjoy the music and the racing", said USPCA inspector Mr Jimmy Moran. Veterinary surgeon Ms Harper McCrea was satisfied. "If a pig is under stress, it won't do what those pigs are doing quite happily today."