Cape springs a shock

Runner-up Zuberi endured a nightmare passage in the straight, but that'll matter little to supporters and connections of 50/1 victor, Cape Discovery first home in the Dundalk Stadium Apprentice Maiden.

Robbie Downey couldn't get a run on the inner in the straight, on Ger Lyons' Zuberi, until too late, and the Keith Moriarty (second winner) partnered Cape Discovery led under a furlong out, after being switched out to launch his bid a furlong and half out.

In the end there was three parts of a length between Cape Discovery and Zuberi.

John Murphy saddled Cape Discovery and he was also responsible for the fourth home, Seaforth (4/1).

George Murphy (son and assistant) to the Cork trainer said: "We were very disappointed (towards the rear in May and June) with his first two runs but he's a big backward horse and is probably only coming into himself now.

"He's always shown at home that he's a good horse, and hopefully he can find another bit of improvement."

The Stewards interviewed Christina Simpson, rider of Suffice To Say concerning her use of the whip in the closing stages of this race. Evidence was heard from the rider concerned in the presence of A. Oliver, trainer and master of Ms Simpson.

Having viewed a recording of the race and considered the evidence the Stewards were of the opinion that the rider was in breach of Regulation 10.3.(f), in that she had used her whip with excessive frequency and having considered her record, suspended her for two race days.

S. Corby, rider of Maple Noble trained by M.Halford, reported to the Stewards' Secretaries that his mount was slow away when the stalls opened.

The Stewards requested a report from John Joseph Murphy, trainer, as to the apparent improvement in form of Cape Discovery (GB), placed first, as compared with its recent form.

George Murphy, Authorised Representative for the trainer, reported that the trainer had always held this horse in high regard, but added that this was a very weak and immature type and after a disappointing run at Naas, was given a long break and a chance to strengthen up which he felt this had brought about todays improved performance.

Having considered the report, the Stewards noted its content.

(AM & EM)