See also » Genius wins again on New Year's Day at Tramore

The Stewards requested a report from Paul Nolan, trainer, as to the apparent improvement in form of Peculiar Genius, placed first, as compared with its recent form. James Nolan, authorised representative of the trainer, reported that Peculiar Genius had made a very bad mistake on his previous run and his rider on the day pulled him up thereafter, as he had lost all confidence. He said his charge was well schooled since that run and he felt this had attributed to the improved performance. Having considered the report, the Stewards noted the explanation offered.

A novice steeplechase for five yrs old and upwards which, at entry, are rated 109 or less, also open to horses which, at entry, are rated 109 or less in hurdle races
Weights - 5-y-o 10st 11lb; 6-y-o and up 11st 3lb
Penalties - Winner of a steeplechase 4lb extra; Of two steeplechases 7lb extra; Horses which, at entry, have not run in two or more steeplechases and/or do not have a published steeplechase rating may enter and run at the discretion of the handicapper provided their steeplechase rating is 109 or less. Horses which, at entry, have not run in three or more hurdle races and/or do not have a published hurdle rating may enter and run at the discretion of the handicapper provided their hurdle rating is 109 or less. However hurdle ratings and performances will only be considered after steeplechase ratings and performances.