See also » OKeeffe-rides-out-claim-in-Cork-National-win
I always thought he'd win a big pot but recently I thought it was slipping away on him. It arrived now and we'll take it and he has been a good servant. I don't know was today a plan as he was to run at Clonmel on Thursday but I rang Frank and said we'd better put him in the Cork National and see, so it was the right decision. I was talking to Enda Bolger (trainer and O'Keeffe's employer) at a point-to-point earlier today and he said to me 'that young fellow is looking forward to riding him today', although he must have known more than I knew!. He is a good kid and you'd have winners if you had him. Michael Hourigan, trainer

The Stewards requested a report from Michael Hourigan, trainer, as to the apparent improvement in form of The Gatechecker, placed first, as compared with its recent form. The trainer reported that his charge is a difficult type which needs to enter the parade ring last and go to the start on his own. He said his charge has plenty of ability, but must be kept calm before racing and put the improved performance down to the preliminaries going well today

Having considered the evidence, the Stewards noted the explanation offered

Owing to the low lying Sun, the Stewards granted permission for fence no. 8 to be omitted from this race

The Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board Veterinary Officer examined Pont Aven, trained by W.P. Mullins, at the request of the Stewards and reported the animal to be post race normal

P. Townend, rider of Pont Aven trained by W.P. Mullins, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount pulled hard earlier on and made a bad mistake at the third last.

An extended handicap steeplechase for four years old and upwards rated 0-150
Penalties - Handicapper.