It was a big week for the doggie people with the coursing in Clonmel and those with any money left may well have invested again in Terry Corden's Kedleston as he defied a 14Ib hike in the ratings for his gambled on success here three weeks ago. The son of Oratorio did the business once more under Wayne Lordan in the Leucillin Horseware Ireland Handicap.

Corden of course sponsored the Tynwald Open 790 at Clonmel greyhound track during the week and here he saw Lordan get to the front a furlong and a half down on the 2/1 market-leader (hammered in the betting this morning but easier on track) before going on to see off Roman General by two lengths.

Lordan said of the Tommy Stack trained three-year-old: "They went a little bit steady at the beginning but when I asked him to quicken he quickened up nicely. He likes this surface and he's after doing it here now on his last two runs."

The Stewards enquired into the running and riding of Roman General, placed second, ridden by W.J. Lee and trained by Mr Edward Lynam.

Evidence was heard from the rider and trainer concerned.

Mr Lynam, trainer, stated that as his charge had previously run keenly with J.P. Murtagh he instructed todays rider to get the colt to switch off and drop him in and ride him to the finish as he had been failing to finish well in recent races. He felt in running that the leader had initially steadied the pace before quickening which left his own charge flatfooted. He added that he was very satisfied with the ride.

W.J. Lee, rider, confirmed the instructions and stated that the change in tactics possibly did not allow his mount to carry him throughout the race and was caught flatfooted when the pace quickened. He added that he was continuously squeezing his mount and he eventually ran on well but in his opinion he may need a slightly longer trip of one mile two furlongs to be effective. The Stewards also received a report from the Turf Club Veterinary Officer who stated that Roman General was post race normal.

Having viewed the video of the race and considered the evidence, the Stewards noted the explanations offered. They complimented the manner in which W.J. Lee presented his evidence but were critical of the attitude displayed by Mr Lynam towards the Stewards. He apologised and his apology was accepted.

(AM & EM)