Perfect Woman prevails in Cork

Perfect Woman repelled all the challengers in gamely winning the two and a half mile handicap hurdle at Cork.

The seven-year-old mare was well punted from 11/4 in the morning to an SP of 6/4 favourite.

Mark Walsh always had her to the fore but from the third last there were plenty of horses still in with chances.

Former course winner Notification proved to be the strongest challenger but, try as he might, he couldn't get on terms with the winner who kept on stoutly after the last to score by two and a quarter lengths.

Notification was second at 6/1. He was a nose in front of third-placed Deano also at 6/1.

Trainer Mick Winters said: "She is from the old Second Schedule and Merry People breed and has only every run two or three bad races in a few years.

"She keeps going and was at her best today. She's very tough and while it might sound greedy, she's in next Thursday at Thurles and we'll see how she is."

The Stewards interviewed Mr W.T. Cronin, rider of Notification, concerning his use of the whip in the closing 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 the rider was in breach of Regulation 10.3.(g) in that he had used his whip with the arm above shoulder height. Having considered his record, Stewards suspended him for two race days and ordered that he attend R.A.C.E for one days tuition on the correct use of the whip.

Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes