First double for Noonan as Avec strikes for O'Brien brothers Earlier successful on Caoimhes Pet, Gary Noonan completed the first double of his career when partnering Avec Espoir (14/1) to victory in the Play Tote Fantasy At tote.ie Handicap Chase. In a share of the lead early on, the Val O'Brien trained ten-year-old gained an outright advantage on the approach to the fourth. Pushed along and pressed from three out, the admirable chestnut battled on gamely when ridden on the run-in, seeing off the challenge of Likeable Chancer (4/1) by a length. The first two dominated from flag fall and finished 11-lengths clear of Glenmalure Lodge (15/2) in third, with Leish Oscars Son (3/1 favourite) never landing a blow in fifth. "It is the jockey's first double and it is great to get the win. He jumped for fun and the ground drying out was a big help - it was nice ground. His run in Listowel (3rd to Harvey's Quay) was good," O'Brien, who trains the winner for his brother Sean, said. "We need two things for him: we need ground and going left-handed. There is a race for him in Navan before the winter comes." O'Brien, with a small yard, has a noted reputation for persevering with veteran horses and quipped: "Santa is not bringing new toys so I have to keep going with what I have!" STEWARDS REPORT * The Raceday Stewards interviewed G.B. Noonan, rider of Avec Espoir (GB), concerning his use of the whip in the closing stages of this race. Evidence was heard from the rider concerned who accepted that he was in breach of Regulation 10 and apologised for his actions. Having viewed a recording of the race and considered the evidence the Raceday Stewards were satisfied that G.B. Noonan was in breach of Regulation 10.3(g) (frequency) and 10.3(i) (time to respond). Having taken his previous record into account the Raceday Stewards suspended G.B. Noonan for eight racedays. Mr. S. McDonogh did not attend this enquiry. Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes
