At prices of evens and 7/4 and 10/1 bar, it was hardly surprising when the Join Tipperary Supporters Club (C & G) Maiden Hurdle boiled down to a duel between the 'jolly,' Ordinary World and the second in, Timing'severything from the second last.

With the benefit of three previous hurdle outings, Andrew Lynch's mount Ordinary World eventually came out on top by half a length from Punchestown Festival bumper scorer Timing'severything.

They left the third home, Lord De Beaufai all of seventeen lengths back.

"I was delighted as he jumped really well and is a real chaser in the making," said winning trainer Henry de Bromhead.

"He is deadly to jump and I imagine after speaking to Chris (Jones, owner) that we'll tip away with him over hurdles with an eye to going chasing next season.

"I'm in no mad rush with him and think he'll benefit from time."

The Stewards interviewed A.J.Martin, trainer, concerning the failure to nominate a rider before the designated time for Improver

Evidence was heard from the trainer who stated that he met R. Walsh last Sunday and he was made aware of the opportunity to ride this animal but Jennifer Walsh, the riders agent would not subsequently commit to confirming his availability as it was a first time runner over hurdles.

The trainer added that he attended a funeral yesterday morning and he did not receive any response from the agent before the closing time for nominating a rider and subsequently contacted R. Walsh directly who accepted the ride.

Having considered the evidence, the Stewards were satisfied that A.J. Martin was in breach of Rule 195 and fined him €200. He was reminded that ultimately it was his responsibility to ensure that a rider is nominated by the deadline.

The Stewards allowed the request for R. Walsh to ride Improver.

(TW & EM)