See also » Cromwell-claims-Fairyhouses-opener-with-La-Malmason
she was very good although we were clutching at straws with her but she had kissing spine surgery during the summer and it's obviously done the trick: she had been making a lot of mistakes last year so we got her checked out at the end of the season. I was a little bit concerned the ground wouldn't be slow enough as she'd appreciate softer going and will definitely get further. I'm delighted with the way she jumped today, Keith said when he jumped the first he knew she was a different mare so hopefully she can kick on from here. I haven't looked beyond today, this was the plan although I couldn't rule out the Thyestes or an Irish National. I'm delighted to get a winner at this meeting; we got one in Navan (Troytown weekend) and if you can have a winner at these big meetings it's great. Gavin Patrick Cromwell, trainer

The Raceday Stewards enquired into an incident after the third last involving Broomfield Bijou, ridden by S

Ewing, placed sixth, and Deons Diamond, ridden by G. Brouder, placed fourth, where it appeared Deons Diamond ran short of room. Evidence was heard from the riders concerned. S. Ewing stated that he was on the rail throughout and there was no room on his inner. G. Brouder stated that Broomfield Bijou jumped slightly left and he maintained a straight line down his inner. Having viewed the recording of the race and considered the evidence, the Raceday Stewards found G. Brouder, was in breach of Rule 214 in that he had ridden carelessly, and having considered his record in this regard (first offence) the Raceday Stewards suspended G. Brouder for two racedays

S. Ewing, rider of Broomfield Bijou, trained by J.P.Dempsey, reported to the Clerk of the Scales that his mount was hampered turning in

The Raceday Stewards requested a report from Gavin Cromwell, trainer, as to the apparent improvement in form of La Malmason, placed first, as compared with its recent form. Gavin Cromwell stated that La Malmason had undergone a proceedure for a kissing spine during a break in training and this may have brought about the appareant improvement in form. Having considered the report the Raceday Stewards noted the content of the report

The Raceday Stewards reviewed an incident on the approach to the second last involving Sainte Dona (FR), ridden by D. Meyler, unplaced, and Deons Diamond, ridden by G. Brouder, placed fourth, where it appeared there was contact between the two. Having viewed the recording of the race and considered the matter, the Raceday Stewards were satisfied that no further action was warranted.

An extended handicap steeplechase for four years old and upwards mares only that are EBF eligible (140 = 11st 12lbs)
Penalties - Winner of a steeplechase after calculation of the handicap shall carry 7lb extra for each steeplechase won.