The Stewards enquired into the running and riding of Vic's Little Miss, ridden by P. Merrigan, and trained by Paul W. Flynn. Evidence was heard from the rider and trainer concerned. P. Merrigan, stated that his instructions were to get the mare settled early, and take his time with her before pushing her on. P. Merrigan further stated that he was caught unaware at how relaxed Vic's Little Miss jumped off, and that this put him at a disadvantage. He added that he should have tried to be closer early on and that this was a misjudgement on his behalf. Paul W. Flynn confirmed the instructions given to P. Merrigan and stated that he was surprised the mare didn't go forward more with the addition of a tongue tie and considering how free she had run on her previous runs in Sligo and Cork. Paul W. Flynn added that he was not satisfied with his mare's run, and that the addition of a tongue tie on this occasion did not help. The Stewards also received a report from the Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board Veterinary Officer, who stated that Vic's Little Miss was post race normal. Having viewed the recording of the race and considered the evidence, the Stewards noted the explanations offered.

The Stewards interviewed P. Merrigan, rider of Vic's Little Miss, concerning his use of the whip in the final 3 furlongs of this race. Evidence was heard from the rider concerned. Having viewed a recording of the race and considered the evidence, the Stewards were of the opinion that P. Merrigan was in breach of Regulation 10.3 (g), in that he used his whip with excessive frequency. Having considered his record in this regard, the Stewards cautioned P. Merrigan on this occasion.

The Stewards interviewed Miss P. Elvin, rider of Nancy D'alton, concerning her use of the whip in the closing stages of this race. Evidence was heard from the rider concerned. Having viewed a recording of the race and considered the evidence, the Stewards were of the opinion that Miss P. Elvin was in breach of Regulation 10.3 (b) in that she used her whip unnecessarily after her chance of winning or being placed was clearly gone. Having considered her record in this regard, the Stewards suspended Miss P. Elvin for 1 raceday, and ordered her to attend R.A.C.E for 2 days tuition on the correct use of the whip.

The Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board Veterinary Officer examined The Reaping Race, trained by E. McNamara, at the request of the Stewards and reported the animal to be post race normal.

The Stewards fined Kieran P Egan, trainer, €350 for lodging a passport in respect of Art Of The Deal, in which the vaccinations did not conform with the provisions of Rule 91. The Stewards ordered the withdrawal of Art Of The Deal in accordance with the provisions of Rule 90.

The Stewards interviewed Mr J.J. O'Neill, rider of Lough Sewdy, concerning his use of the whip in the closing stages of this race. Evidence was heard from the rider concerned. Having viewed a recording of the race and considered the evidence the Stewards were of the opinion that Mr. J.J. O'Neill was in breach of Regulation 10.3 (g) in that he used his whip with excessive frequency. Having considered hs record in this regard, the Stewards caution Mr. J.J. O'Neill on this occasion.

The following Raceday Stewards acted on behalf of the Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board at this race meeting:

Mr. J.P. Caffrey (Chairman),
Mr. C.P. Magnier,
Capt. S.H. Walford,
Mr. N. McGrath,
Mr. P.D. Matthews.

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