Zanoosh takes the bumper for Murphy & O'Rourke The Colm Murphy-trained Zanoosh gave rise to hopes of even brighter days ahead, as she led home 15 rivals in the concluding Hire2K Irish EBF Mares INH Flat Race. Bought for E41,000 at the Goffs Arkle Sale in 2023, she subsequently finished tenth in the Goffs Defender Bumper, catching the eye when fourth on her most recent start over flights in January. Well-supported from 20s to 10s today, the Harzand bay was settled in mid-division on the inner by Jimmy O'Rourke, making good progress on the approach to the straight. Poised to challenge behind the leaders entering the straight, she was briefly short of room from the two furlong pole but soon got the desired gap. Ridden over a furlong out, she quickly took over at the head of affairs, keeping on well in the closing stages to beat the Willie Mullins-trained Hello Jean (5/2f drifted from 13/8) by two-lengths. There was a further seven-and-a-half length gap back to Broomfield Aderra (14/1) in third. "She had a very good run here in January, she was kind of an eye-catcher that day in fairness," Murphy said of the Winning Ways Reunion Syndicate-owned victor. "We started her off in the Land Rover and things just didn't go right, she ran a bit free that day. "She's matured a lot and she could be a nice filly. She is one to look forward to. "I'd say she does everything right, I'd say a bit of nicer ground wouldn't inconvenience her either. "We'll go baby steps with her. There's a chance she might go to Punchestown for the bumper there and I'd imagine hurdling next season." STEWARDS REPORTS The Raceday Stewards interviewed Mr D. McGill, rider of Soldierstown, concerning his use of the whip in the closing stages of this race. Evidence was heard from the rider concerned who stated that the last strike didn't connect. Having viewed a recording of the race and considered the evidence the Raceday Stewards were satisfied that Mr D. McGill was in breach of R.10.3(g)(frequency) and having considered his record in this regard (second offence), they suspended him for four racedays. Additional reporting by Michael Graham
