Moyle Rovers Co Under 21 FC H´cap H´dle (Rated 81-102) of €10,000.00 5-y-o plus 2m.

1st - €6,910.00, 2nd - €1,700.00, 3rd - €800.00, 4th - €500.00 18 Ran

An average handicap won by Tom Foley's Guiding Dream. Second in a similar race here recently, the mare made all for a game four length win and might win another similar race from her revised mark.

Runner-up South Liberties was the real eye-catcher and finished strongly. Christy Roche's gelding had not shown much in four hurdle starts todate but made good progress on the outer in the straight to be a never dangerous second. It is difficult to get over-excited about the overall form of the race but it is clear there are handicaps to be won with South Liberties.

The stewards subsequently enquired into the running and riding of South Liberties. Evidence was heard from his rider who stated that his instructions were to jump off fifth or sixth and to give his mount plenty of light on the outside, on the fresh ground. He added his mount became outpaced midrace before staying on in the later stages. He also stated that the horse hung badly in the straight making it difficult to ride him out more vigorously.

The stewards also received a report from the Turf Club Veterinary Officer who stated South Liberties was found to have a nasal discharge post race. Having viewed the video of the race and considered all the evidence, the stewards noted the explanations offered.

Brouling has registered just one win in 17 hurdle starts but ran a sound race to take third. Although 11, he still retains enough ability to win an average race. Offside had a soft palate operation since his last run and ran reasonably well to take fourth while Tiamo, subject of a big gamble here in December, disappointed again here.

Aerlite Rooler has an unenviable record over fences but reverted to hurdling here. He was beaten when eased in the straight.

Non-runners were the three reserves.