Black Ice surprises at Limerick

The Seamus Fahey trained Black Ice caused a 16/1 upset to win the Racing Home For Christmas Handicap Hurdle at Limerick today, winning under five pounds claimer Shane Butler.

The son of Great Exhibition was produced by Butler to lead after the final flight and in the end scored a two and a half lengths win over Admiral Brian

Afterwards Fahey stated: "He had a very good run here last year behind Kitten Rock but disappointed us at Clonmel on his latest run. As a result we were more hopeful than confident today."

"He's in at Tramore on Thursday but it comes quite quick and we'll see how he comes out of this before deciding."

The Stewards received a request from John Ryan, Authorised representative for T.J. O'Mara, trainer, to substitute the nominated rider Mr R.D. Conran with R.P. Treacy on their charge Saslong (GB) as he was 3lbs overweight. John Ryan stated that the rider had confirmed his availability to ride with no weight difficulty. Mr R.D. Conran

accepted that he had not disclosed any weight difficulty when confirming availability and added that he was delayed en route to the races today and consequently was unable to use the sauna on arrival. Having considered all the evidence, the Stewards were satisfied that Mr R.D. Conran was in breach of Rule 198 and therefore suspended

him for 1 race day and further fined him €150. The Stewards allowed John Ryan's request for the change of rider.

By Thomas Weekes