“The (Fin & Feather) syndicate aren’t here unfortunately but they have been very loyal. There are ten in the syndicate and they are mostly fishermen. My son is a fisherman and he attracted all of them," explained winning trainer Prunella Dobbs after landing split two of the Kennedy's Bar Sligo Handicap Hurdle with Shantou Warrior (8/1).

Sean Flanagan did the steering on the victorious Shantou youngster, and he prevailed by four and a quarter lengths and two lengths from Bronson In Blue and Ashjan

“Pursecco was their previous mare we won with a few times so it’s nice to have a follow on," further explained Mrs Dobbs.

“He’s a stayer and will progress, so as long as I can keep him sweet and happy we should have a bit of fun during the summer with him.”

The Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board Veterinary Officer examined Cappuccino Man trained by Oliver McKiernan, at the request of the Stewards and reported the animal to be post race normal.

R.A. Doyle, rider of The Hunter Hoe trained by Conor O'Dwyer, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount lost its action and pulled up before the second last.

K.M. Donoghue, rider of English Pale trained by S.J.Mahon, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount ran too free.

The Stewards interviewed C.P. McNamara, rider of Torquay (GB), concerning his use of the whip in the latter stages of this race. Evidence was heard from the rider concerned. Having viewed a recording of the race and considered the evidence the Stewards found the rider in breach of Reg.10. 3.(g)(frequency) and having taken his record into account cautioned him.

(AM & EM)