Burns back with a big priced winner

He hasn't had a huge amount of runners in the interim but Robbie Burns saddled his first winner since September 2011 when the Davy Russell-ridden (he got a three day whip ban) Baby King scored at odds of 33/1 on his debut in the Annual Family Day 18th May (C & G) Maiden Hurdle at Navan.

Odds-on backers came out best after a sweat in the opener with Whisper Rock but they weren't so lucky here with Emperor Of Exmoor as that one got literally 'nosed' out of it by Baby King.

Burns, who also had Lisa's Legacy in here – that one a 33/1 chance too and finished eighth – said: "I told a few lads to back him each-way as he was a massive price.

"He's a well-bred horse and he likes the soft ground. He was fit and well and he jumps well.

"I was a bit surprised at the price as he does everything well.

"He's a nice horse – a winter ground type. I wouldn't have run him but for the rain coming recently and he was lucky to get in as he was fifteen in the ballot.

"We had him away to gallop two or three times and he went well so I was confident enough with him."

The Stewards interviewed D.N. Russell, rider of Baby King, 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(e), in that he used the whip other than down the shoulder or on the hindquarters and having considered his record, suspended him for three race days.

E.J. O'Connell, rider of Shantou Flyer trained by Colin Bowe, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount made a respiratory noise in running.

The Stewards interviewed R.M. Power, rider of Portrade 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(b), in that he continued to use the whip when his chance of winning or being placed had gone and having considered his record, cautioned him as to his future responsibilities in this regard.

(GC & EM)