Leopardstown Result

See also » Zabana makes winning start over fences
“I was afraid of the ground but he was fit and well. He is going to come on a bit from that,” Andrew Lynch, trainer

The Stewards enquired into the running and riding of Blair Perrone, placed second, ridden by D.F. O'Regan and trained by A.J.Martin. Evidence was heard from the rider and trainer concerned. D.F. O'Regan stated that his instructions were to get his mount settled as he is a keen horse that wears a hood, give him room to jump away and do the best he could from there. He felt that he gave him a great ride, crept away while his jumping brought him into the race after the third last fence and from thereon he nursed him along until into the straight when the horses in front of him emptied and he stayed on to the line until his own horse emptied close to the line. He said that from past experience the horse doesn't respond to the whip. In his opinion, this is the way he'd like to ride him in future races. A.J.Martin confirmed the instructions and stated that he was satisfied with the ride. He said that the horse is a worrier who lives on his nerves and was racing today for the first time over 2 miles and 3 furlongs. He felt that the rider gave him a chance to get home over this longer trip and stated that he would not like the whip used on this horse. As for future plans, he stated that he would look to run him on similar ground and back to the minimum 2 mile trip in races such as the Arkle Chase here in Leopardstown. The Stewards also received a report from the Turf Club Veterinary Officer who stated that Blair Perrone was lame in front post race. Having viewed the recording of the race and considered the evidence, the Stewards noted the explanations offered and took no further action.

A steeplechase for four yrs old and upwards that have not won a steeplechase
Weights - 4-y-o 11st 5lb; 5-y-o and up 11st 12lb; Mares allowed 7lb;