Downpatrick 22nd May 2026

The Stewards authorised the following substitutions of riders at this meeting:

The Raceday Stewards reviewed an incident in the closing stages involving Dahab, ridden by P. Cleary, Glendaars Secret, ridden by P.J. O'Hanlon, and Echinacea (GB), ridden by C. Stone-Walsh, where it appeared Dahab ran short of room momentarily. Having viewed the recording of the race and considered the matter, the Raceday Stewards were satisfied that no further action was warranted.

D.J. O'Keeffe, rider of Idaho Expresso, trained by D.M. Christie, reported to the Clerk of the Scales that his mount hung left.

The Raceday Stewards fined K.C. Sexton, rider of Raleagh, €200, for failing to present to weigh out for this race.

Kevin Healy, rider of Bayonetta, trained by Gerald Stephen Quinn, reported to the Clerk of the Scales that his mount jumped left throughout.

C.P. Millar, rider of Artic Chief, trained by Liam Lennon, reported to the Clerk of the Scales that his mount never travelled and hung left in the closing stages.

The Raceday Stewards requested a report from Dermot Anthony McLoughlin, trainer, as to the apparent improvement in form of Joya Del Mar, placed first, as compared with its recent form. Dermot Anthony McLoughlin reported that his charge may have been in season the last day and that the better start today coupled with the nicer ground may have contributed to the apparent improvement in form. Having considered the report the Raceday Stewards noted the explanations given.

P.J. O'Hanlon, rider of Massabielle, trained by Dermot Anthony McLoughlin, reported to the Clerk of the Scales that his mount burst a blood vessel. This was subsequently confirmed by the IHRB Veterinary Officer who reported the animal to have blood at both nostrils.

The Raceday Stewards fined Garry Aherne, trainer, €65, for failing to fit the declared cheekpieces to Our Story, prior to entering the parade ring.

Mr B. O'Neill, rider of Fortune Lad, trained by D.M. Christie, reported to the Clerk of the Scales that his mount was badly hampered throughout by the loose horse.

The following Raceday Stewards acted on behalf of the Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board at this race meeting:
Mr. Robert Steele (Chairman),
Mr. Joe Collins,
Mr. Michael Todd,
Rev. Colin Hall Thompson,
Mr. H. Hynes.

For this race meeting, the Raceday Stewards suspended the ‘Starting Procedures for Tape Starts’, and the IHRB suspended Rule 208 (i) and Rule 209 (i).

Disclaimer: Please note this information is provisional and is subject to amendment until published in the Irish Racing Calendar.