Thurles 20th March 2014

The Stewards requested a report from M.F.Morris, trainer as to the apparent improvement in form of Ballysteen, placed first, as compared with its recent run. M.F. Morris stated that his charge last ran at Gowran Park 8th March when he raced in a prominent position until making a bad mistake at the fifth last fence. The animal was pulled up soon afterwards having lost his confidence. Since then he had received intensive schooling up to and including this morning and this was evident in the manner in which he jumped throughout today. Having considered the evidence the Stewards accepted the content of the report.

P. Carberry, rider of Manor Court, trained by S.J.Mahon, reported to the Stewards' Secretaries that his mount burst a blood vessel and was pulled up.

Garry Caldwell, trainer of Sligo Girl, reported to the Stewards' Secretaries that his charge was found to be in season post race.

The Stewards interviewed Mr S.P. Byrne, rider of Way Wild West, concerning his use of the whip in the latter 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 S.P. Byrne was in breach of R10(3)(f) by using his whip with excessive frequency and severely cautioned him having taken his previous good record into consideration.

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