See also » Espion-delights-Lyons--Teehan
In hindsight he wasn't straight enough for Clonmel as he had missed a few days over Christmas after his fall here. We had a fair idea we had him right for today but still we were worried about the ground as he'd prefer it a bit better. If he is okay in the morning, we might try for a novice handicap at Wexford in March but we're absolutely thrilled to have won two with him during the winter. Louise G Lyons, trainer

The Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board Veterinary Officer examined Shopping Around, trained by J.T.R.Dreaper, at the request of the Stewards and reported the animal to be post race normal

The Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board Veterinary Officer examined Carnet De Stage, trained by Eugene M

O'Sullivan, at the request of the Stewards and reported the animal to have pulled a left fore shoe but to be otherwise post race normal

K.M. Donoghue, rider of Shopping Around trained by J.T.R.Dreaper, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount never travelled and made a bad mistake up the back

D.J. O'Keeffe, rider of Knockraha Boss trained by Richard Anthony Foley, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount made a couple of mistakes

The Stewards enquired from B. Hayes, rider of Chalky White who fell on the flat in this race. The rider reported that his mount fell independently of any other horse having sustained an injury. Having considered the report and viewed a recording of the race, the Stewards were satisfied that no further action was warranted

The Stewards requested a report from Louise G. Lyons, trainer, as to the apparent improvement in form of Espion Du Chenet (FR), placed first, as compared with its most recent run. Louise G. Lyons stated that her mount was returning from a small break after a bad fall and had found the ground far too testing and had gotten very tired on it's previous run. She added that the better ground today had helped to bring about the apparent improvement in form. Having considered the evidence the Stewards noted the explanation given

An extended handicap steeplechase for five years old and upwards (109 = 11st 10lbs)
Weights - Top weight in the original handicap and after the time of declaration shall not be less than 11st 10lbs and the minimum weight shall not be less than 9st 12lbs
Penalties - Winner of a steeplechase after calculation of the handicap shall carry 5lb extra for each steeplechase won.