Free State is supported and delivers

Paul Flynn was denied a big priced Dundalk double when his 25/1 chance Mosman lost out by a neck to Free State in division one of the Marshes Shopping Centre Handicap.

Free State was ridden by Gary Halpin for the Denis Hogan yard, and he didn't go unbacked at 6/1 from 8s (and bigger earlier).

On start number fifteen the New Approach five-year-old shed his maiden tag as he saw off Mosman (first time visors, Rossa Ryan drew eight of his ten pound allowance) in the extended mile and a quarter heat.

Free State dwelt but he was soon racing in mid-division and he took closer order in fifth at halfway. Hogan's charge got to third a furlong out and he stayed on well to lead near the line.

"He'd a wind operation since his last run. He's versatile trip wise and needs good ground. He's at his level there, and hopefully can win another one," said Halpin.

O.J. Orr, rider of Lucent Dream trained by John C. McConnell, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount ran short of room on the first bend.

The Stewards enquired into the apparent improvement in form of Free State (GB), trained by Denis Gerard Hogan, placed first, compared with its recent form.

Evidence was heard from the trainer's representative, Wesley Hayes, who stated that the horse made a respiratory noise at Gowran in August and was subsequently operated on for his wind and given a break. He added that the horse returned at Dundalk on November 9th and was noted to be blowing hard post race, possibly having needed the run.

He did not have any aids applied on that occasion and again on his last start on November 18th.

Today's return to form was attributed to the application of blinkers and a tongue tie.

Evidence was also heard from the Senior Rules Of Racing Turf Club Handicapper, Mr. Garry O'Gorman who stated that today's win represented a significant improvement on recent form.

Having considered the evidence the Stewards were of the opinion that the failure to report that the horse made a respiratory noise at Gowran was a breach of Rule 213(ii) and therefore referred the matter to the referrals committee under the provisions of Rule 213(iv).

(AM & EM)