Byrnes Limerick Christmas festival winner arrives in final race

Supporters of local trainer Charles Byrnes had to wait until the final race but a Limerick Christmas festival winner arrived at Greenmount Park for the Ballingarry handler when Blazing Khal scored in the bumper.

Byrnes’ son Philip took the reins on the four times previously raced experienced youngster, in this Mr Binman Christmas Racing Festival INH Flat Race.

Eventual second Grady Hollow drifted out into Blazing Khal’s path inside the final furlong and the 7/2 winner did well to get up and prevail by three parts of a length.

Supporters of 11/8 favourite Noble Yeats knew they were in trouble from before the straight. He did run on without threatening though, to finish two and a half lengths back in third.

"It was a good race and he had the experience and it was a big help,” said Byrnes senior.

"We'll probably look for a winners' bumper next as there isn't much point in going jumping at this stage of the season.

"That was my first winner this week - the horses weren't over-exciting and I was stunned the fellow yesterday (Pairc Na Ngael) got beaten. We got the win here anyway which was the main thing."

The Stewards interviewed Mr P. Byrnes, rider of Blazing Khal, concerning his use of the whip in the closing stages of this race. Evidence was heard from the rider concerned. Having viewed a recording of the race and considered the evidence the Stewards found Mr. P. Byrnes in breach of Regulation 10.3.g, excessive frequency. Having considered his record in this regard the Stewards cautioned Mr. P. Byrnes on this occasion.

(TW & EM)