Runrized scoots home under Mullins

Runrized (10/3) left a couple of pulled up efforts in the rear-view mirror by landing Tramore's two mile maiden hurdle in good style.

He raced wide under Danny Mullins as the pair swept past Don Diablo on the run to the second last.

He jumped it to the left but still held a healthy lead and powered away to the last which he also jumped left.

Mullins could afford a look over his shoulder and to ease down his mount in the closing stages as the pair came in by eight and a half lengths.

Western Cowboy (6/1) got up by a head to take second from even-money-favourite Don Diablo.

Danny Mullins said: "The better ground helped. He is a horse that probably likes a bit of room and he gains a bit of confidence from that.

"He had experience and I suppose off his rating and, with the better ground, we were hoping he would produce a performance like that.

"He is maybe a lad that could gain confidence from today and win a few nice little novice hurdles during the summer. With the new season I think he is a novice until December.

"Hopefully there will be options for him and I'm sure Willie will find a nice slot for him."

This supplemented the treble Willie Mullins had in Tramore yesterday.

The Stewards requested a report from W.P. Mullins, trainer as to the apparent improvement in form of Runrized (FR), placed first, as compared with its recent form. Brendan Kenny, authorised representative for the trainer, stated that the application of a tongue tie and the better ground today had helped to bring about the apparent improvement in form. Having considered the report, the Stewards noted the explanation.

The Stewards interviewed Mr A. Sinnott, rider of Pistol Smoke concerning his use of the whip in latter stages of this race. Evidence was heard from the rider concerned, who accepted that he had used his whip when his chance of winning or being placed had clearly gone, and apologised for his actions. Having viewed a recording of the race and considered the evidence, the Stewards were satisfied that Mr. A. Sinnott in breach of Regulation 10.3(b)(out of contention) and having considered his record, they suspended the him for one race day.

Additional reporting by Donal Murphy