Wildcatted springs surprise in Limerick finale

Wildcatted ran out a surprise 25/1 winner of the last at Limerick, the Charleville Cheese Beginners Chase.

The Michael McDonagh trained seven-year-old recorded his only previous success in a handicap hurdle over the course in October of 2013.

Zero from four in point-to-points, the son of Shirocco was beaten by over 100 lengths on his most recent starts at Naas and Gowran.

Settled in fourth by David Splaine he improved to lead after five out and was clear from before the second last, going on to score easily by twenty-five lengths. Pilgrim Way (7/2), who raced well off the pace in rear, finished second under Sean Flanagan for Mark Cahill. Follow The Sign was sent off the well-backed 5/2 favourite (from 7/1 last night and from 3's on-course). He attempted to make all but faded tamely once headed after five out.

The Oliver McKiernan trained gelding eventual refused at the second last.

STEWARDS REPORTS

The Stewards requested a report from James Ivors, Authorised representative for Michael J. McDonagh, trainer, as to the apparent improvement in form of Wildcatted (GER), placed first, as compared with its recent form. Mr Ivors reported that a combination of a very good round of jumping, on a track where he had previous good form, in what he felt was a poor race had brought about the improved performance. Having considered the evidence the Stewards noted the explanation offered.

The Stewards interviewed I.J. McCarthy, rider of Follow The Sign, concerning his riding in this race and the refusal of his mount at the second last fence. Evidence was heard from the rider concerned. Having considered the evidence, the Stewards were of the opinion that the rider was in breach of Rule 272, in that he had failed to pull up his mount. Having considered his record, the Stewards suspended him for three racedays.