Leahy and Walsh Pleased As Punch

Pleased As Punch (11/2) stayed on stoutly to get her first win at the 17th time of asking when landing Tramore’s 80-95 handicap hurdle over two miles.

The six-year-old, partnered by Mark Walsh, was third jumping the final hurdle but she wouldn’t be denied as she got up a neck to deprive The Fitz Lady (5/1f). There were two 25/1 shots in third and fourth, It’s All An Act and Gold Tantrum respectively.

Trainer Augustine Leahy said: “Mark said to keep her for Listowel as she likes it there as well. He is a good pilot, but she gave him plenty of help in the last quarter mile. Going down the hill she looked sort of cooked, but she kept at it. She is consistent and I’m glad for her.”

Mark Walsh said: “She’s a filly and has her own ideas about things. Her last few runs have been consistent. I was hopeful not confident. They went a good gallop and came back to me. She loves passing horses and she winged the last.

“All went to plan and hopefully she will get confidence from that. That’s her grade.”

The morning price gamble on Aroy went awry at the third last when she unseated Martin Burke. She had been backed down from 20/1 to 6/1 before racing, but was returned at 12s. Gatesoffrance had plenty of supporters at the track as his price contracted to 8/1 from 12/1. He was pulled up after racing adrift from the outset.

The Stewards enquired into an incident on the bend entering the back straight involving It's All An Act ridden by B. Hayes, placed third, Salacious Sally ridden by A.P. Thornton, unplaced and Sweet Sylvia ridden by K.C. Sexton, unplaced. Evidence was heard from the riders concerned. Having viewed the recording of the race and considered the evidence, the Stewards were of the opinion that A.P.Thornton was in breach of Rule 214,having ridden carelessly and having considered his record, suspended him for five race days.

.

D.N. Russell, rider of Gatesoffrance trained by Peter Fahey, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount hung off the track and was pulled up.

The Turf Club Veterinary Officer examined Gatesoffrance, trained by Peter Fahey, at the request of the Stewards and reported the animal to be post race normal.

Additional reporting by Donal Murphy