Sligo Result

See also » Murphy and Carroll double up in Sligo
He's a nice horse. He probably has a fair bit to go before he'll be as good as his half-brother (seven-time winner Swamp Fox) but he's going the right way about it. We'll see how he handles Galway at some point. Joseph G Murphy, trainer

The Stewards enquired into the running and riding of Petrol Head, ridden by R.C. Colgan, and trained by David Peter Dunne. Evidence was heard from the rider and trainer concerned. R.C. Colgan, stated that he was instructed to jump off mid division or thereabouts and let the horse race where he was comfortable and to do his best. On viewing the video he stated that his mount had jumped out of stalls awkwardly for a few strides and was further back in the field than intended. He added that when wanting to make a forward move in the back straight he had held back while the rider of Staging Post was in trouble on a free running horse. He concluded by stating that his mount was flat out from the bottom bend, got a reminder with the whip and failed to respond before being driven to the line. In his opinion Petrol Head handled the ground well but needs a longer trip. David Peter Dunne, trainer, confirmed the riding instructions and added that the rider was not to force his mount as he was drawn wide from stall fifteen. He stated that his charge ran bad recently at Killarney where E.J. McNamara, rider on that day, informed him that his mount was a lazy and stuffy horse which could benefit from a quick return to the track. On viewing the video of todays race Mr Dunne felt that his charge attained his best possible placing. He described his charge as a big stocky animal who needs plenty of work and shows nothing at home. The Stewards also received a report from the Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board Veterinary Officer who stated that Petrol Head was post race normal. Samples were taken for analysis. The Stewards further requested an explanation from David Peter Dunne for his reason for delaying the commencement of this enquiry. He stated that he was on his own today and had led up his charge. He admitted that he had left his charge unattended while collecting the riders saddle. Having viewed the recording of the race and considered the evidence, the Stewards noted the explanations offered. Furthermore the Stewards noted the explanation furnished by David Peter Dunne for leaving his charge unattended in the stable yard by his own admission

GENERAL INFORMATION The following Raceday Stewards acted on behalf of the Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board at this race meeting: Dr. Colm O'Flaherty (Chairman), Mr. Derek Pugh, Mr. Donal Gavin, Mr. M.F. O'Donoghue

For four years old and upwards, maidens at starting
Weights - 9st 9lbs Fillies allowed 5lbs