Leopardstown 2nd February 2026

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

The Raceday Stewards interviewed Gordon Elliott, trainer of Staffordshire Knot, in relation to the excuse offered (change in going) for non running. Evidence was heard from the trainer who stated that with the meeting rescheduled for two days later he felt the ground may be more holding than the original date and this would not be ideal for his charge who is a small horse carrying top weight. Having considered the evidence, the Raceday Stewards accepted the trainers explanation.

The Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board Veterinary Officer examined County Final, trained by E. McNamara, at the request of the Raceday Stewards and reported the animal to be coughing post race.

The Raceday Stewards reviewed the racing line of Kargese (FR), ridden by P. Townend in relation to Romeo Coolio (GB), ridden by J.W. Kennedy, between the third and second last fences. Having viewed the recording of the race and considered the matter, the Raceday Stewards were satisfied that no further action was warranted.

The Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board Veterinary Officer examined Affordale Fury, trained by Noel Meade, at the request of the Raceday Stewards and reported the animal to be lame behind post race.

The Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board Veterinary Officer examined Spindleberry, trained by W.P. Mullins, at the request of the Raceday Stewards and reported the animal to be post race normal.

The Raceday Stewards reviewed an incident at the last fence where a fence steward crossed in front of the fence as Grangeclare West, ridden by B. Hayes, was jumping it. Having viewed the recording of the race and considered the matter, the Raceday Stewards requested the Clerk of the Course, Mr. P.F. Graffin, to remind those responsible to be more aware in future.

The Raceday Stewards interviewed D.J Gilligan, rider of Golden Joy (FR), concerning his use of the whip in the closing stages of this race. Evidence was heard from the rider concerned who said he miscounted the number of strikes as he was using it. Having viewed a recording of the race and considered the evidence the Raceday Stewards were satisfied the rider was in breach of R10.3(g)(frequency) and having considered his clean record, they suspended him for two racedays.

The Raceday Stewards enquired into possible interference in the straight involving Broadway Ted, ridden by Mr B. O'Neill, placed first, and With Nolimit (FR), ridden by Mr D.G. Lavery, placed second, where it appeared interference may have occurred. Evidence was heard from the riders concerned. Mr. B. O'Neill said With Nolimit drifted first and his horse followed him across. Mr. D.G. Lavery said he received pressure from his right. Having viewed the recording of the race and considered the evidence, the Raceday Stewards made no alteration to the Judge’s placings and took no further action.

The following Raceday Stewards acted on behalf of the Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board at this race meeting: Mr. Justice T. Hunt (Chairman), Mr. J. Gaisford St Lawrence, Mr. C.J. O'Reilly, Mr. C.P. Magnier, Mr. L. Walsh.

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