Punchestown Result

See also » Mary made to work to maintain unbeaten record
She jumped very big but she'll come on plenty for it, although she will need to. She jumped the first few okay but then lost her way a bit. She had been schooling alright at home but hadn't been away at all. She will go for some mares' races, and should get further. She finds plenty and was the same in bumpers. C Byrnes, trainer

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.

A hurdle race for four yrs old and upwards mares only, maidens at starting
Weights - 4-y-o 10st 13lb; 5-y-o and up 11st 7lb