See also » Fourth-Dundalk-win-for-Meishar
we weren't going to enter him but I said before we'd rather drop back to five than head up to a mile. Six or seven (furlongs) is probably ideal but we saw this race. We knew he'd have plenty of weight but once we knew we could get Sam to take off 5lb we said we'd go for it. He carries me around, and I'm thirteen-and-a-half stone - I know that's not in a race but carrying weight is no bother to him as he's a fine big horse. we had nothing to lose and thought it would tell us where we are going next year with him. I was surprised that Sister Lola went and caught him last week but they went plenty quick then and it suited her while it probably softened him up a bit for those coming late. He's been unbelievably consistent. James McAuley, trainer

The Stewards enquired into the running and riding of Pinball Wizard, ridden by S.D. Bowen, and trained by John J.Nallen. Evidence was heard from the rider and trainer concerned. S.D. Bowen, stated that his instructions were to jump out, track behind and keep going. He found the race went very quick, it was his first time riding over 5 furlongs at Dundalk. In the race itself he was slow to jump out and flat out early. In the closing stages he came with his challenge and mistook the 50 yard pole for the finish line. Mr. J.T. Carroll, Authorised Representative for the trainer stated that the rider's instructions were to jump out, travel where he's travelling, pull his whip through and use it when necessary, it was the horse's second run for the yard and they were still learning about him. Regarding the ride given, he felt the rider was inexperienced (5th ride) and this was a factor in the error. The Stewards also received a report from the Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board Veterinary Officer who stated that Pinball Wizard was post race normal. Samples were taken for analysis. Having viewed the recording of the race and considered the evidence, the Stewards noted the trainer's explanation and found S.D. Bowen in breach of Rule 212A (iv)(negligent misjudgement) and suspended him for two race days and ordered he forfeit his riding fee.

An extended handicap for three years old and upwards (80 = 10st)
Weights - Top weight in the original handicap and after the time of declaration shall not be less than 10st and the minimum weight shall not be less than 8st 6lbs
Penalties - (after calculation of the handicap) A winner shall carry 6lb extra for each race won.