Star Max and Donagh Meyler© Photo Healy Racing
There was a Gigginstown House Stud one two in the Fairyhouse Evening Racing May 28th Beginners Chase as Star Max (5/2) beat Dis Donc (9/1).
On his 14th attempt to make the breakthrough over the larger obstacles Joseph O’Brien’s charge came a second time to beat Dis Donc by half a length.
It was two and three parts of a length to favourite Raya Time (9/4) in third, as the winner overcame the fact that he’d tended to jump left.
Stable representative Brendan Powell said: “He looked beaten but he stayed on again and battled back.
“Rachael (Blackmore) rode him the last time and said he'd be better on better ground and he's proved it today.
“He's been consistent and it's nice to get his head in front.”
The Stewards interviewed D. Meyler, rider of Star Max (GER), concerning his use of the whip in latter stage of the race. Evidence was heard from the rider concerned who stated that his horse was rolling around and he used the stick to help keep him straight. Having viewed a recording of the race and considered the evidence the Stewards were of the opinion that some of the strikes were for corrective purposes and therefore took no further action.
The Stewards enquired into the running and riding of Midway To Getaway ridden by Mr S. Staples, and trained by P.J. Rothwell. Evidence was heard from the rider and trainer concerned. Mr S. Staples, stated that his instructions were to jump off at the rear, get his mount around and make the best of his way home. He added that his mount jumped slowly and she was flat out from the start. P.J. Rothwell confirmed the riding instructioins and stated that the rider is inexperienced but did well to get her around as she didn't jump great on her last run. He added that the filly isn't up to this class of a race but is there to give the rider some experience. The Stewards also received a report from the Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board Veterinary Officer who stated that Midway To Getaway was post race normal. Having viewed the recording of the race and considered the evidence, the Stewards noted the explanations given.
(GC & EM)
