Ernie Johnson (jockey) 1979, 49 in 1980, 29 in 1981, 46 in 1982, to 27 in 1983. In the 1980 Epsom Oaks, Johnson rode The Dancer, on whom he had won a race at Newbury as a 2 year old, for Major Dick Hern. Hern's stable jockey, Willie Carson, also had the choice of Cheshire Oaks winner Shoot A Line and Musidora Stakes winner Bireme. He elected to ride Bireme, who won by 2 lengths from Vielle, with The Dancer in 3rd. Johnson made much of the running until two furlongs out and was possibly a shade unlucky - The Dancer was partially
1979 Irish Greyhound Derby qualify with Indian Joe in second place. The final saw Penny County out of the traps first, chased by Distant Clamour who challenged on a couple of occasions but found his path blocked. Nameless Pixie ran on well for third place. 1979 Irish Greyhound Derby The 1979 Irish Greyhound Derby took place during June and July with the final being held at Shelbourne Park in Dublin on 28 July 1979. The winner Penny County won £20,000 and was trained by Matt Travers, owned by Paddy Hurney & Sean Dunne and bred by Con Moore. The competition was sponsored by Carrolls.