The Loughnagore INH Flat Race at Kilbeggan certainly rounded off things on a lively note as Ben Brody and Lambs Lane shared the spoils in the near two and a half miler.

Luke Bleahen (from the well-known County Galway equestrian family) certainly won't forget this race in a hurry as he was getting a '1' beside his name at his initial attempt on the racecourse proper.

It seemed six of one and half a dozen of the other as Ben Brody (entitled to hold his rails position) and well-backed favourite Peacocks Secret leaned on each other as they duelled it out up front from before the turn-in.

Again the camera angle at the line here proved to be very deceptive as Lambs Lane finished off best to grab a share of the spoils with the Sean Byrne-ridden Ben Brody.

The Patrick Mullins-ridden Peacocks Secret was a short head back in third.

Ben Brody is trained by Byrne's father and namesake, whilst Philip Rothwell has care of Lambs Lane (got a 42 day ban at Clonmel after a running and riding enquiry on his debut) for the Amberdale Syndicate.

"I thought he had it but the horse on the outside flew home," Byrne senior said afterwards.

The Stewards interviewed Mr P.W. Mullins, rider of Peacocks Secret, 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(f) in that he used the whip with excessive frequency and having considered his record, cautioned him concerning his future responsibilities in this regard.

Mr P.T. Foley, rider of Dantess trained by Thomas Foley, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount made a respiratory noise in running.

The Stewards enquired into an incident in the closing stages involving Ben Brody, ridden by Mr S.P. Byrne, placed first and Peacocks Secret, ridden by Mr P.W. Mullins, placed third. Evidence was heard from the riders concerned. Having viewed the recording of the race and considered the evidence, the Stewards were of the opinion that Mr. Mullins was in breach of Rule 214, in that he rode carelessly and having considered his record, suspended him for one race day.

(GC & EM)