There was a lively betting heat for the Happy Valentines Day (Pro/Am) INH Flat Race at Punchestown and the spoils went to one of the easier to back contenders, Gigolo’ Dai Dai (10/1) for Henry de Bromhead and Davy Roche.

Previously sixth in a maiden hurdle on his sole outing prior to this, the victor, a son of Al Namix, like earlier scorer, Farmix saw off outsiders Meet And Greet (20/1) and Another Scotch (50/1) by a neck and the same.

Meet And Greet was eye-catching as he finished off well, whilst market-leaders Starman and Mylerstown Upper were fifth and fourth respectively. Tucson Train tumbled in price from 12/1 into 7/2 but could manage only eighth.

“He got me out of a hole. We said we’d get there late as he travels so well. He stayed at it well and is a nice horse,” reported Roche.

“He’s always worked well at home. We were going to run him at Christmas in the winners’ race (at Leopardstown) but he just wasn’t right the day before so we left him alone and it’s worked out.”

The Stewards interviewed Mr. B.G. Crawford, rider of Another Scotch, concerning his use of the whip in the closing stages of this race. Evidence was heard from the rider concerned, who accepted that he had used his whip with excessive frequency and apologised for his actions. Having viewed a recording of the race and considered the evidence, the Stewards were satisfied that Mr. B.G. Crawford was in breach of Regulation 10.3(g)(frequency) and having considered his record the suspended him for 2 racedays.

(AM & EM)