See also » Course-specialist-Verhoyen-does-it-again-at-headquarters
I was in two minds about running him but in fairness they have done a good job as they always do. The fact that it was later in the day we weren’t sure how much it was going to dry out but it’s lovely safe ground although quick enough for him. He’s a devil for anticipating and half the time he misses the break and doesn’t run a race, he half sulks when he doesn’t get to the front but when he pings the gates like that he loves it. The handicapper will probably crucify him again and it will take another year for him to win but it’s great to get a winner on this weekend. M C Grassick, trainer

Following a request from broadcasters, the Raceday Stewards granted permission for a two minute delay to this race C. Stone-Walsh, rider of Miramis, trained by Joseph Patrick O'Brien, reported to the Clerk of the Scales that his mount hung right throughout this race

S.D. Bowen, rider of Big Baby Bull, trained by Denis Gerard Hogan, reported to the Clerk of the Scales that his mount hung right under pressure

R.P. Whelan, rider of Half Nutz, trained by Adrian McGuinness, reported to the Clerk of the Scales that his mount met with interference in running

J.A. Powell, rider of Jered Maddox (GB), trained by David Marnane, reported to the Clerk of the Scales that his mount stumbled on leaving the starting stalls

The Raceday Stewards enquired into start of this race where stall number eight of Verhoyen, ridden by W.J. Lee, placed first, opened before the stalls of the other runners. Evidence was heard from Mr J.R. Banahan, IHRB Starter and W.J. Lee, rider. In his evidence, the starter stated that Verhoyen always loaded last into the starting stalls and did so again today. He added that on observing the yellow flag signal from the rear of the starting stalls, he pushed the button to open the gates. He felt that Verhoyen hit the gates at the same time. W.J. Lee stated that his mount was very clever and had plenty of experience from loading into stalls last and jumping out smart. He added that his mount jumped at the gate as it opened and he hit it running. Having reviewed the video recordings of the start on numerous occasions and considered the evidence of the starter and the rider, the Raceday Stewards were satisfied that a fair start had been affected and took no further action.

An extended handicap for four years old and upwards (90 = 10st)
Penalties - (after calculation of the handicap) A winner shall carry 7lb extra for each race won.