Fakir another Christmas winner for Gigginstown and O'Brien Fakir justified 5/2 favouritism in the opening BRC McMahon Reinforcements Rated Novice Hurdle at Limerick. Another winner for Gigginstown House Stud, this length victor, with a first-time tongue-strap on, was never far away, before accounting for Bal De Rio (outsider of the 8-strong field at 16/1). Fakir represents Joseph O’Brien and was ridden by seven pound conditional Oakley Brown. Fakir joins Assemble, Argumental, Forged In Fire and Fire Attack as Gigginstown and O’Brien winners over the Christmas. "He jumped great there today and what standard of race it is I don't know but he gave him a nice ride and the race turned into a sprint,” said stable representative Brendan Powell. "He'll end up staying further in time but he does travel away good and was good jumping some of them today. The handicapper shouldn't be too hard on him for a race like that where they all finished in a bunch." The Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board Veterinary Officer examined Arahecan, trained by Henry de Bromhead, at the request of the Stewards and reported the animal to be post race normal. The Stewards interviewed R.P. Treacy, rider of Tomeric (FR), 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 R.P. Treacy was in breach of R10(3)(g) by using his whip with excessive frequency. Having taken his previous record into consideration, the Stewards suspended R.P. Treacy for 2 racedays. (TW & EM)
