Emma Twomey rides 1st winner in Ladies National

Emma Twomey, who only began race riding in a point-to-point in January, and now holds a Flat and jumps licence, got off the mark aboard Kavanaghs Corner in the Rybo Ladies National Handicap Chase at Fairyhouse.

Riding the 14/1 shot for Henry de Bromhead, Twomey had her mount in the rear of mid-division early, where he took a keen hold.

He made headway into fourth at the fifth, and he was a close third two out.

Soon pushed along, Kavanaghs Corner improved to dispute the lead at the last. The eleven-year-old Coroner gelding was ridden to lead inside the final furlong, staying on well to beat Braeside by three parts of a length. Envol Pierji was on the back-foot after a mistake at the third and ended up a never nearer bronze medallist, four and a half lengths behind.

“He jumped amazing for Emma and that’s her first winner,” said de Bromhead.

“I’m delighted for her as she plays a big part in our operation. She’s had point-to-point rides and over hurdles and on the Flat for us. She’s been with us on and off for years and wanted to come back and give the race-riding a go.

“She’s doing really well and I’m delighted for her and the owners.”

The Stewards interviewed James Andrew Fahey, trainer, concerning his failure to nominate a rider before the designated time for Scully's Dream Evidence was heard from the trainer concerned, who stated that owing to the conditions of this race he had considerable difficulty in securing the services of a suitable lady rider before declarations closed despite his best efforts. Having considered the evidence, the Stewards allowed the nomination of Ms. N.A. Barry on this occasion and took no further action other than to advise the trainer of his future responsibilities under Rule 195.

The Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board Veterinary Officer examined Envol Pierji (FR), trained by Miss Elizabeth Doyle, at the request of the Stewards and reported the animal to have a small wound on the right hind, but was other wise post race normal.

Ms H. Mooney, rider of King's War trained by Mrs Ann Mooney, reported to the Clerk of Scales that her mount was carried out by a loose horse.

The Stewards enquired into an incident after the last involving Braeside, ridden by Ms L. O'Neill, placed second and Lever Du Soleil (FR), ridden by Miss J. Walton, placed first. Evidence was heard from the riders concerned. Having viewed the recording of the race and considered the evidence, the Stewards were satisfied that Ms. L O'Neill was in breach of Rule 214(careless riding) and having considered her record, they cautioned her on this occasion.

The Stewards interviewed Miss A. O'Sullivan, rider of Well Joey concerning her 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 were satisfied that Miss O'Sullivan was in breach of Regulation 10.3(b) in that she had used her whip unnecessarily, after her chance of winning or being placed had clearly gone. Having taken her previous record in this regard into account, the Stewards cautioned her on this occasion.

(AM & EM)