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he won a maiden hurdle first time out and we thought he was a lovely horse but he took a long time to get his act together jumping wise. He made a lot of mistakes the last few days but he jumped great today and I'd say that was the difference. He seemed to be a lot more confident today and jumped really well. I'd say it was a very poor contest but he couldn't do any more than win it and he won well. I'm delighted. We'll look for something similar. I thought he wanted a bit of better ground but he seemed to handle it. E McNamara, trainer

The Stewards requested a report from E. McNamara, trainer as to the apparent improvement in form of Donkey Years, placed first, as compared with its recent run at Naas on 31st January when 12th of 14 runners beaten 86 lengths by the winner Stormy Judge, this being his first run in a handicap. The trainer reported that his charge jumped very poorly at Naas and never got into the race before eventually becoming detached. He advised that his charge had been schooled intensely recently and jumped adequately today but kept in touch with the other runners at all times. Having considered the evidence the Stewards noted the content of the report

An extended handicap steeplechase for five years old and upwards (116 = 11st 10lbs)
Weights - Top weight in the original handicap and after the time of declaration shall not be less than 11st 10lbs and the minimum weight shall not be less than 9st 12lbs
Penalties - Winner of a steeplechase after calculation of the handicap shall carry 5lb extra for each steeplechase won.