See also » Thorne making rapid returns with Instant Appeal
we said we would test the waters over seven furlongs because there was no race for him until mid-February and he was in ripping form. I was keen to get him back out and obviously he loves the surface. He has been a remarkable horse the last couple of months for us and is flying the flag. We are thinking about going to the Good Friday meeting in Newcastle for a couple of our horses and I think a stiff mile would suit Instant Appeal. We have an eye on a race and maybe he’ll have a prep run, possibly over a mile here on February 20. He's very lightly-raced and, in fairness, he presented to us in great shape. We bought him in an online sale and I think these online sales will become more prevalent in the future because not everyone can get to see these horses or get to the sales. It was good timing for the sellers and also for us. The lads are having great enjoyment and fun. Stephen Thorne, trainer

L.T. McAteer, rider of The Liffey, trained by Denis Gerard Hogan, reported to the Clerk of the Scales that his mount got a bump a furlong down

J. Kearney, rider of Instant Appeal (GB), trained by Stephen Thorne, reported to the Clerk of the Scales that his mount went right in the final furlong

D.P. McDonogh, rider of Exquisite Acclaim, trained by Adrian McGuinness, reported to the Clerk of the Scales that his mount was hampered near the finish

The Raceday Stewards enquired into an incident inside the final furlong involving Big Gossey, ridden by W.J. Lee, The Liffey, ridden by L.T. McAteer, and Exquisite Acclaim, ridden by D.P. McDonogh, where it appeared interference may have occurred. Evidence was heard from the riders concerned. L.T. McAteer stated that his mount shied away from the horse on his inside and ducked right. D.P. McDonogh stated that his mount was weakening when The Liffey bumped him slightly. W.J. Lee stated that he kept a straight line. Having viewed the recording of the race and considered the evidence, the Raceday Stewards were satisfied that no further action was warranted

An extended handicap for three years old and upwards (100 = 10st)
Penalties - (after calculation of the handicap) A winner shall carry 7lb extra for each race won.