Snegurochka has Dowdall Blake back at the number one

Newbridge restricted licence holder Monica Dowdall Blake had her first winner since May 2014 when Snegurochka won the Tughans Fillies INH Flat Race at Down Royal.

This Elusive Pimpernel youngster made an encouraging start when fifth at the Punchestown festival at the beginning of May and she came forward for that here.

The grey, bought by her owner/trainer for 1,500 Euros as a foal in 2015, was ridden by Tom Hamilton on this occasion.

Supported from 4/1 into 11/4 favouritism Snegurochka came out on top by half a length from nicely backed first-timer Springsteen's Girl after a protracted duel.

In a good sign for the race the principals were five and a half lengths clear and more of the rest.

Ms Dowdall Blake's previous winner was Shu Lewis, a great servant to connections.

The Stewards interviewed Mr K.M. Smith, rider of Springsteen's Girl, 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 Mr K.M. Smith was in breach of R10(3)(g) by using his whip with excessive frequency. Having taken his previous record into consideration, the Stewards suspended Mr K.M. Smith for 1 raceday.

The Stewards interviewed Mr T. Hamilton, rider of Snegurochka, 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 satisfied that two hits with the whip were used for corrective purposes where there was no running rail and the remaining hits did not breach R10(3). The Stewards, therefore, accepted the explanation offered.

(MG & EM)