Union Dues overcame a little adversity to justify his position as the 11/10 favourite in the Tote Win 24% Better Than Bookmakers SP (QR) Maiden at Galway.

The smart French bred got a bump early on and if you were 'on' the 'jolly' you may have had a little concern approaching the straight as Beyond Berlin (eventually faded into fifth) struck for home.

Patrick Mullins had to go wide but Union Dues was simply much better than this opposition and he extended like the classy individual he is (Grade 2 bumper scorer) inside the last to see off Darwins Fox (12s into 8s) by six lengths.

Patrick was doing the steering for owner Allan McLuckie and his trainer father Willie.

The record breaking amateur explained: "The bump I got early is half the craic of why I like riding in the amateur races!

"It also helped me to get him back and settle him. He was too keen at Cheltenham.

"If he'd settled he'd have been second or maybe even given the winner (Briar Hill) something to think about in the bumper there (eventually came home in eighth in the Cotswolds).

"I think he's a proper horse and he'll be a great dual purpose type. The owner has already had Holy Orders and Deutschland and I view him as a similar sort.

"I wouldn't mind riding him in the amateur handicap on the opening day here next year!"

The Stewards interviewed Mr.M.Fahey, rider of Owega Star 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, suspended him for four race days. (TW & EM)