See also » Townend rides 12th winner this week
the experience from last season was a huge benefit to him and he seems to like that ground. When he was beaten last season we put him by for this season and said if there was rain and a bit of nice ground we'd run and that's what we have done. If the ground stays nice we'll continue with him and if not we'll give him a break. I'd prefer to continue with him and he has a flat mark so there may be a day out with him on the flat too. He is a horse who unlikely the first filly (Scaglietti) that will see a fence in time as he is a fine big strong horse. Paul is riding with great confidence and is injecting that into the horses. W P Mullins, trainer

The Stewards enquired into the running and riding of Gangsters Paradise, placed third, ridden by K.J. Brouder, and trained by Ian O'Connor. Evidence was heard from the rider and trainer concerned. K.J. Brouder, stated that his instructions were to settle his mount early as he had burst in the past, to creep into the race and to do the best he could. He said his mount settled well in rear in a race that was run at a fast pace, before staying on past tired horses in the closing stages. He said his mount jumped well when left alone but did not like to be forced into jumping. Ian O'Connor confirmed the instructions given and expressed his satisfaction with the ride. He stated that of late, he trains his charge from the field in an attempt to address a previous burst and furthermore that he changed the diet of the animal and felt a combination of both appeared to improve the situation. He concluded by stating that his charge appears best suited by today's trip. The Stewards also received a report from the Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board Veterinary Officer, who stated that Gangsters Paradise had a noted abnormality post race

Samples were taken for analysis. Having viewed the recording of the race and considered the evidence, the Stewards noted the explanations offered.

A hurdle race for four yrs old and upwards colts and geldings only, maidens at starting
Weights - 4-y-o 11st 5lb; 5-y-o and up 11st 12lb;