See also » Queally's Dahoma lands dramatic opener at Clonmel
It was almost like Red Marauder's Grand National! This horse had so much experience in handicaps and had gone around in front in schooling races, so I was pretty sure he'd be honest enough to face the challenge of leading. He was a little sick last winter, he is only four and I think he might be better going left-handed. He is by Wooded, so I think he is a fast-ground two-miler and, leaving home, I had said to my father (Declan) that I thought today's race would suit. It was an ordinary race but I think there will be more to come and he can campaign away in 0-100s, as his mark probably won't change. . The nine-member syndicate are a great bunch of lads and include my mother's first cousin Liam Keating, who runs a bike-rental business on the Waterford Greenway in Kilmacthomas. They had no luck from five previous horses but stuck with it, and today, Liam came in asking where was the winners' enclosure! Declan Queally, trainer

The Raceday Stewards requested a report from Declan Queally, trainer, as to the apparent improvement in form of Dahoma, placed first, as compared with its recent form. The trainer reported that the application of a tongue-tie today may have brought about a return to form. Having considered the report the Raceday Stewards noted the explanation offered

The Raceday Stewards enquired into the riding of K.C. Sexton, rider of Open Approach, where it appeared he missed the second hurdle and continued to ride to the finish. Evidence was heard from the rider concerned who stated that he felt he jumped between the wing and the hurdle and that he was entitled to keep riding in those circumstances. Having considered all the evidence, the Raceday Stewards disqualified Open Approach under Rule 262 (iv) and found K.C. Sexton in breach of Rule 215(i) and having taken his clean record into account suspended him for two race days

The Raceday Stewards enquired into the running and riding of Johnny Rambo, ridden by J.P. Shinnick, and trained by Donncha Duggan. Evidence was heard from the rider and trainer concerned. J.P. Shinnick stated that his instructions were to sit mid division and give him a look at his hurdles. His mount was green all the way. He grabbed a hold of him, nursed him down the hill and he ran on from the last in a race that fell apart. Donncha Duggan confirmed the instructions and stated he was satisfied with the ride given. With the horse having his first run he felt the horse was green and should come on for the experience. The Raceday Stewards also received a report from the Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board Veterinary Officer who stated that the horse was post race normal. Samples were taken for analysis. Having viewed the recording of the race and considered the evidence, the Raceday Stewards noted the explanations given

G. Brouder, rider of Earthwatch, trained by Denis Gerard Hogan, reported to the Clerk of the Scales that his mount ran out going to two out on the first circuit

A.P. Kelly, rider of Magna Gee Gee, trained by Patrick J.Flynn, reported to the Clerk of the Scales that his mount was carried out at the first hurdle

K.E Buckley, rider of William F Browne, trained by Paul W. Flynn, reported to the Clerk of the Scales that his mount cocked his jaw and ran out at the first

K.C. Sexton, rider of Open Approach, trained by Gordon Elliott, reported to the Clerk of the Scales that his mount was badly hampered

Alan O'Sullivan, rider of Straightenyourhand, trained by W.J. Burke, reported to the Clerk of the Scales that his mount was carried out

P.K. Donovan, rider of Whats New, trained by Andrew Slattery, reported to the Clerk of the Scales that his mount was carried out.

A hurdle for four years old only, maidens at starting
Weights - 11st 7lbs. Fillies allowed 7lbs.
Riders - Professional & Claiming Professional Riders who have not ridden more than 15 N.H. winners in the 2025/2026 season (Qualified Riders are excluded from riding in this race).