See also » Noble-Talent-something-to-look-forward-to
When we saw the entries, we said we'd run if Danny was happy to ride him. Danny rang me the other day and walked the track and said he'd like to ride him. I have to thank him for this. JJ (Slevin) and Danny both said he should do well over fences. Danny walked this on Wednesday and told me the ground was lovely, in Mallow it was too quick for him. He needs three miles but we were quite happy with that. He'll handle a good bit softer than this. Jumping is a big strong point with him. He's a funny little horse, Danny pulled out wide as I don't think he likes being bullied inside in a big bunch. We had a cute man riding him. Have you ever seen a jockey to keep improving so much? He's brilliant. He works for small trainers really well because he puts a lot into it. JJ was suggesting to me that we should be looking at the Tim Duggan, he said that after Sligo. Danny said the same, that we should be looking at a decent handicap. He was thinking we could go out to three or three-and-a-half miles with him. He's in good order and fences seem to be improving him. He's something to look forward to. T J Nagle Jr, trainer

The Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board Veterinary Officer examined Hardy Diamond, trained by Gordon Elliott, at the request of the Raceday Stewards and reported the animal to be post race normal

The Raceday Stewards interviewed H.E. Sexton, rider of Brucejack, concerning his use of the whip in the closing stages of this race. Evidence was heard from the rider concerned. H.E. Sexton accepted he was in breach of the regulation and apologised for his actions. Having viewed a recording of the race and considered the evidence the Raceday Stewards found H.E. Sexton in breach of R.10.3(g) (frequency) and in considering his clean record in this regard they suspended him for two racedays

The Raceday Stewards reviewed an incident on the home bend involving Noble Blue (FR), ridden by R. Deegan, unplaced, and Tell Nobody Nothin, ridden by Sam Ewing, placed sixth, where it appeared they got close together as they turned in. Having viewed the recording of the race and considered the matter, the Raceday Stewards were satisfied that no further action was warranted

J.W. Kennedy, rider of Hardy Diamond, trained by Gordon Elliott, reported to the Clerk of the Scales that his mount never travelled.

A steeplechase for four years old and upwards that have not won a steeplechase and that at entry are rated 109 or less over hurdles
Weights - 4-y-o 11st 3lbs 5-y-o and up 11st 12lbs Mares allowed 7lbs