See also » Waitnsee delivers on first start for new owners
Mark Fleming and Jeff Bruce already had a mare with me who wasn't up to the standard of this one. I talked to them about this mare and they purchased her and are keeping her in training with me. They (Danny Mullins and Paul Townend) were sensible enough not to cut each other’s throats out in front. Her dam cost a lot of money and she is very good. It's a top class pedigree and I had a half-brother to her called Bitview Colin. He won plenty of prize money and got some black-type too. She go to Listowel for a novice chase. I love that place. John Patrick Ryan, trainer

The Stewards enquired into the running and riding of Castello Sforza, ridden by A.P. Kelly, and trained by Padraig Roche. Evidence was heard from the rider and trainer concerned. A.P. Kelly, stated that his instructions were to sit mid devision, get his mount jumping well and to achieve his best possible finishing position, however he felt the field went too fast early and he was also badly hampered by the faller at the first and he ended up further back then he had wanted. He advised that the horse did not have great form and was a faller on its previous run and in view of his past form and problems he wanted to nurse him home today. In his opinion his mount was flat out all the way and he pasted tired horses in the closing stages. Padraig Roche, confirmed the instructions given and stated that he was satisfied with the ride that his charge received, although, through the riders lack of experience he ended up further back than ideal. He also stated that his charge has a history of leg problems and is hard to keep sound and does most of his work in the swimming pool and is only ever ridden at home by todays rider and the reason he has the horse is to give A. P. Kelly rides. The Stewards also received a report from the Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board Veterinary Officer who stated that Castello Sforza was post race normal but noted an old injury on the left fore. Having viewed the recording of the race and considered the evidence, the Stewards noted the explanations given.

A steeplechase for four years old and upwards that have not won a steeplechase and which at entry are rated 116 or less over hurdles
Weights - 4-y-o 11st 1lbs 5-y-o 11st 13lbs 6-y-o and up 12st Mares allowed 7lbs