Knock On Steel lands punt in Clonmel opener

The defections of Thrones Game and Visioman changed the complexion of the Kilmore Maiden Hurdle at Clonmel which eventually went the way of Knock On Steel (11/2 into 7/2).

A first track win from limited opportunities in over six years for amateur jockey Mark Scallan, Knock On Steel made all to beat favourite Reaver by a length and three parts.

"He loves his racing and jumps brilliantly. He's a keen old sort but enjoys that ground and has got his day in the sun," said Scallan on the Brian Jordan-trained victor.

"All along he hasn't been getting the rub of the green but things fell into place for him today when he got his ground. I had plenty left late on.

"I ride out for Brian (Jordan) in the mornings and do my own point to pointers in the afternoon - that's my first winner on the racecourse for a long time (since May 2012)."

B.J. Geraghty, rider of Toulson (GB) trained by C.Byrnes, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount jumped badly, never travelled and was pulled up thereafter.

J.P. O'Sullivan, rider of Follow The Storm trained by P.J. Rothwell, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount hung badly left and was pulled up thereafter.

The Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board Veterinary Officer reported to the Stewards that Annie Irish trained by R.Donohoe was found to have blood on both nostrils following exercised induced pulmonary haemorrhage.

(TW & EM)