Iron Major wins his 6th race

Eddie Lynam saddled the first two in the market for the 6.20 but he had to settle for second and third there. It wasn't long before compensation arrived though for the County Meath-based trainer as he sent out the first (Iron Major) and third (Akasaka) in the www.dundalkstadium.com Handicap at 6.50.

A big market move for Tarrsille (as big as 15/2 into 3/1) went astray in this mile contest as he could manage only eighth place. Iron Major came from off the pace and though denied a run over a furlong out, he got through to lead in the final hundred yards under Sam James, going on to beat Joe Eile by a length.

Lynam said afterwards: "Akasaka was put up to a mark of 82 by the stroke of the handicappers pen. On the other hand Iron Major has earned every pound of his 84 rating.

"I'm baffled then as to how Iron Major could be 12/1 and Akasaka just 9/2.

"Iron Major is quite useful when things fall right for him."

The Stewards interviewed, J.P. Murtagh, rider of Joe Eile, placed second, concerning his use of the whip in the latter stages of this race

Evidence was heard from the rider concerned.

Having viewed a recording of the race and considered the evidence the Stewards were of the opinion that J.P. Murtagh was in breach of R10(2)(a), by hitting his horse in front of the saddle while the whip was held in the forehand position.

The Stewards suspended J.P. Murtagh for 1 raceday having taken into consideration his previous record in respect of this offence

The Stewards interviewed, J.P. O’Brien, rider of Akasaka, placed third, concerning his use of the whip in the latter stages of this race

Evidence was heard from the rider concerned.

Having viewed a recording of the race and considered the evidence the Stewards were of the opinion that J.P. O’Brien was in breach of R10(2)(a), by hitting his horse in front of the saddle while the whip was held in the forehand position.

The Stewards severely cautioned J.P. O’Brien having taken into consideration his good previous record in respect of this offence (AM & EM)