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It was his first time in a handicap. He didn't like the soft ground the last day but on the better ground today he travelled and jumped away. I'd say it was a very bad race. I don't think it will be one you'll be thinking about in a year's time with loads of form horses coming out of it but the job is done. J P Flavin, trainer

The Stewards interviewed Shane Fenelon, rider of Mezyan (FR), concerning his use of the whip in latter stages of this race. Evidence was heard from the rider concerned who stated that he was in contention and lost count of his use of the whip. He further added that he had his head down riding a finish and used it once having past the finish line. Having viewed a recording of the race and considered the evidence the Stewards were satisfied that Shane Fenlon was in breach of Regulation 10.3(d)(past the winning line) and 10.3(g)(frequency) and considering his record in this regard, they suspended him for 3 racedays

The Stewards interviewed R. Deegan, rider of Time And Times, concerning his use of the whip in latter stages of this race. Evidence was heard from the rider concerned who stated that his mount was hanging to the right and his first three strikes were for corrective reasons. Having viewed a recording of the race and considered the evidence the Stewards were satisfied that R. Deegan was in breach of Regulation 10.3(g)(frequency) and considering his record in this regard, they suspended him for 1 raceday

The Stewards requested a report from J.P. Flavin, trainer as to the apparent improvement in form of Better Than Heaven, placed first, as compared with its recent form. Mr. J.P. Flavin reported that in his opinion his charge ran well on its first run at Punchestown on the 1st of March, was unable to handle the very fast ground and undulating track at Clonmel on the 13th of May and on its most recent run got stuck in the soft ground at Punchestown on the 29th of May. He felt that todays ground was lovely NH ground and the race was of a poor standard, both of which he contributed to the animals success. Having considered the evidence the Stewards noted the content of the report.

An extended handicap hurdle for four years old and upwards rated 80-95
Weights - Top weight in the original handicap and after the time of declaration shall not be less than 12st and the minimum weight shall not be less than 9st 12lbs
Penalties - Winner of a hurdle race after calculation of the handicap shall carry 5lb extra for each hurdle race won.