See also » Facile success for Adamantly Chosen
Paul said he was very green in front but he learned a lot today, even after two hurdle runs. His fitness made the difference and he appreciates the drier ground, rather than real winter ground. We'll look for another type of novice and he can go out in trip. We'll look for races at home and the Michael Purcell Hurdle back here (over 2m5f on Feb 24th) could be a good option for him - over a longer trip he wouldn't have to make the running. W P Mullins, trainer

D.J. O'Keeffe, rider of Listentillitellyea trained by Thomas Gibney, reported to the Clerk of the Scales that his mount was impeaded by a loose horse at the third last

The Stewards enquired into the running and riding of Bugs Moran, ridden by S.W. Flanagan, and trained by Noel Meade. Evidence was heard from the rider and from Ms. Emma Connolly, authorised representative for the trainer

S.W. Flanagan stated that his instructions were to drop his mount out as it can be very keen at home, to switch the animal off and to do the best he could. He said his mount rode different than he had expected and as a result of this, he was further back than he had hoped for early on. He further added that he had never ridden the animal on the track before and in future would ride it differently. He accepted that he could have possibly finished in third place, but felt he was riding at his strongest in the closing stages. He concluded by stating that Bugs Moran may benefit from a step up in trip in future. Ms. Connolly, confirmed the instructions given and expressed her satisfaction with with the ride and stated that her charge can be very keen at home. She said that she had spoken with Mr. Meade over the phone prior to the enquiry and reported that he had not seen the race. The Stewards also received a report from the Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board Veterinary Officer, who stated that Bugs Moran was post race normal. Samples were taken for analysis. Having viewed the recording of the race and considered the evidence, the Stewards were satisfied that both rider and trainer were in breach of Rule 212A(ii) in that the animal was not seen to have been the subject of a genuine attempt to achieve its best possible place. Having considered their respective records in this regard, the Stewards suspended S.W. Flanagan for 10 racedays and ordered that he forfeit his riding fee and fined Mr. Meade €2000 through his authorised representative Ms. Emma Connolly. Furthermore, the Stewards suspended Bugs Moran for 42 days in accordance with the provisions of Rule 212.C.(d).

A hurdle for five years old and upwards, maidens at starting
Weights - 11st 12lbs Mares allowed 7lbs