Princess sheds maiden tag on 28th outing

On start number twenty eight Noverre Princess shed her maiden tag under Declan McDonogh in the Dundalk Stadium On Facebook Handicap.

She was nearly cruelly denied on the line by another bridesmaid, Anner Queen but the print showed that Noverre Princess had hung on by a nose.

The two horses that were best for money at the track, Rockview Emperor and favourite Stoichkhov had to settle for fourth and fifth places respectively.

"I thought she was beaten to be honest and she deserves that after all this time," said winning trainer Eamonn O'Connell.

"She could have one more run before Christmas and she could drop back to seven furlongs."

The Stewards received a request from A.J.Martin, trainer of Anner Queen, to substitute the nominated rider S.D. Torrens, with Tom Madden, due to the nominated rider being five pounds overweight. Evidence was heard from the trainer and rider concerned. Having considered the evidence, the Stewards allowed the request, however they were of the opinion that S.D.Torrens was in breach of Rule 198 and having considered his record, suspended him for two race days. Furthermore the rider was referred to Dr. McGoldrick to have his minimum riding weight reaccessed.

F. Lynch, rider of Grey Is Da Colour trained by C.Byrnes, reported to the Stewards' Secretaries that his mount lost his action in the straight.

(GC & EM)