Escape brings up cross card brace for Elliott

Gordon Elliott completed an across the card double when favourite Moonlight Escape got off the mark at the third attempt in the Reaneys Of Galway Supporting NUIG Volunteer Services Abroad 4yo Fillies (Pro/Am) INH Flat Race. Dinaria Des Obeaux took a beginners chase at Wexford for Elliott, with Jack Kennedy aboard in the Gigginstown House Stud silks.

At Ballybrit Jamie Codd was on Moonlight Escape, third and second in her previous couple of outings.

The experienced Ratoute Yutty ran well, but not well enough to stop Moonlight Escape inflicting a six length defeat.

"It was a very good performance and she is an improving filly. She ran in a couple of Navan and Fairyhouse bumpers on a bit of nicer ground but handles that soft ground well and stays well too," reported Codd.

"She is big enough to go jumping and is going to get better and better. Her form has worked out great and I love my filly (the Gavin Cromwell trained Biddy The Boss) that beat her at Fairyhouse - the future is good for her (Moonlight Escape)."

The Stewards interviewed Mr M.J. Sweeney, rider of Darrens Diamond concerning his use of the whip in this race.

Evidence was heard from the rider concerned.

Having viewed a recording of the race and considered the evidence the Stewards were of the opinion that the rider was in breach of Regulation 10. 3(f), in that he had used his whip with excessive frequency and Regulation 10. 4, in that he had failed to give his mount sufficient time to respond.

Having taken his previous record in this regard into account, the Stewards suspended him for 21 racedays and ordered that he attend R.A.C.E for one day's tuition on the correct use of the whip

The Stewards received a report from the Clerk of the Scales, Mr. H.T. Hynes, regarding the failure of Mr M.J. Sweeney, rider of Darrens Diamond, placed sixth, to weigh in after this race.

Evidence was heard from the rider concerned, who accepted that this was the case.

Having considered the evidence, the Stewards disqualified Darrens Diamond from sixth place under the provisions of Rule 230((ii).

Furthermore, they found that the rider was in breach of Rule 227 and having considered his record in this regard, they cautioned him.

(TW & EM)