See also » Well-supported Cove strikes in opener

The Stewards received a report from Mr P.L. Malone , Turf Club Clerk of the Scales, regarding the fact that J.P. O'Brien , rider of Smuggler's Cove , weighed in at 1.6 lbs overweight. Evidence was heard from the rider concerned, who stated that he was comfortable with his weight and had a few slices of an orange after weighing out. He accepted that he weighed in at 1.6 lbs overweight but he was unable to offer any other explanation. Having considered the evidence, the Stewards were satisfied that J.P. O'Brien was in breach of Rule 231 and they therefore suspended him for 1 raceday. The Stewards enquired into the possibility that the starting mechanism had failed when the starter attempted to start this race. Evidence was heard from the starter Mr Derek Cullen who stated that the starting stalls had been moved prior to this race to make space for the runners arriving at the start but on replacing them back to their starting position, the power supply had not been connected by the person in charge which resulted in the stalls failing to open. Mr Andy Coyle, H.R.I Starting Stalls Tecnician admitted that the failure to connect the power supply was an oversight on his part. Ms Tracey Collins, trainer, complained that her charge Indian Landing, placed third, had hit the stalls with his head when the gates failed to open and commented that this animal had past difficulties at the start and felt that todays situation would not help her charge in the future. Having considered all the evidence, the Stewards were of the opinion that this unfortunate error should not have happened and reminded Mr Andy Coyle to exercise greater care in the future.

For two yrs old only, maidens at starting which are E.B.F. eligible
Weights - 9st 5lb; Fillies allowed 5lb;