Green Vault cracks the point-to-point bumper code

Liam Kenny wasn't surprised by the 14/1 success of his Green Vault in a two and a half mile point-to-point bumper at Punchestown.

The Shirocco gelding moved nicely into contention for James Kenny between the three and the two poles and arrived at the head of affair by the final furlong.

He was driven out to prevail by a length and three quarters from Midnight It Is (10/3). Famous Bridge was another three and three quarter lengths back in third at 5/1.

“I sort of expected that because he had run very well in a point-to-point at Castletown-Geoghegan earlier in the season. He should have won there but the saddle slipped up his neck and he couldn't touch him,” said Kenny.

“On his next run he scoped badly afterwards as he had an infection in his jaw. We left him off until now.

“He'll head for the sales now. We have to sell something because we've been going all year now and haven't got out.

“It's great to have the likes of these opportunities. I even said beforehand that if you can finish in the first two or three you'd have a chance of selling them but if they're standing at home you've no hope.”

The Stewards interviewed Mr. N.J. Redmond, rider of Time Gents concerning his use of the whip in the closing stages of this race. Evidence was heard from the rider concerned, who accepted that he had used his whip excessively and with force having viewed photographic evidence from the I.H.R.B Veterinary Officer. Having viewed a recording of the race and considered the evidence, the Stewards were satisfied that the rider was in breach of both Regulation 10.3(f)force) and Regulation 103(g)(frequency). Having taken his previous record in this regard into account, the Stewards suspended Mr. N.J. Redmond for five race days.

Additional reporting by Gary Carson