Journey deservedly off mark at Dundalk Long Journey Home broke his polytrack account on his twelfth visit to Dundalk when proving best in the Hibernia Steel Handicap under Wayne Lordan. Danny O'Sullivan's Dansili gelding, now a seven-year-old, was game in coming out on top by half a length from Reckless Lad. "The handicapper gave him a chance by dropping him 3lb and that probably made a big difference," said O'Sullivan. "He's been a great horse for us and that's three he's won now. He runs consistently everyday. "Wayne gave him a good ride. There is a mile-and-a-quarter race for him here in three weeks time. "He deserved to win one up here as he's been placed a lot of times." The Stewards interviewed L. Morris, rider of Shabra Emperor, concerning his use of the whip in 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 the rider was in breach of Regulation 10.3(g), in that he used the whip with his arm above shoulder height and having considered his record, suspended him for one race day. F.M. Berry, rider of Reckless Lad trained by Patrick Martin, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount hung left throughout. W.J. Lee, rider of Downforce, trained by W. McCreery, reported to the Stewards' Secretaries that his mount changed his legs in the back straight and may not have acted on the surface. (GC & EM)
