See also » Rakhine-State-just-prevails-in-tight-finish
His jumping let him down at times but it is nice he won. It is great for his owners who live in New York and have a few horses with us. They are good supporters of the yard and haven't had much luck so it's great to win for them. He is a horse who you'll see running in the north of England soon. Gordon Elliott, trainer

D.N. Russell, rider of Rakhine State trained by Gordon Elliott, reported to the Clerk of the Scales that his mount jumped poorly throughout

J.J. Burke, rider of Automatic trained by W.J. Burke, reported to the Clerk of the Scales that his mount didn't handle the hill but stayed on well

L.P. Gilligan, rider of Urban Cruiser trained by John O. Clifford, reported to the Clerk of the Scales that his mount didn't jump well throughout

The Stewards enquired into the running and riding of Weihnachts, placed 2nd, ridden by M.P. Walsh, and trained by P.J. Rothwell. Evidence was heard from the rider and trainer concerned. M.P. Walsh, stated that his instructions were to travel in the first six or seven down the inside and don't get to the front too soon. His mount travelled and jumped brilliantly, but could have come down the hill a little better. In the straight he winged the last hurdle and was all out at the line. Regarding his whip use, he stated that he used it prior to the last but after the last hurdle his mount was trying his best for him without requiring the whip. P.J. Rothwell, confirmed the instructions given to the rider. He stated that his horses had not been running well of late but that this horse was fit and well today. He expressed his satisfaction with the ride. The Stewards also received a report from the Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board Veterinary Officer that Weihnachts was post race normal. Samples were taken for analysis. Having viewed the recording of the race and considered the evidence, the Stewards noted the explanations offered

A hurdle race for five yrs old and upwards that HAVE NOT WON A *RACE
Weights - 5-y-o 11st 11lb; 6-y-o and up 11st 12lb; Mares allowed 7lb