O'Brien brothers on Song

After losing out narrowly in the previous event with Remmy D Joseph and Donnacha O'Brien went a place better in the concluding Book Online At www.limerickraces.ie For Twilight Racing Handicap through 11/4 favourite Song Of The Sky

Six days on from a Cork win, the Rip Van Winkle mare made it two from three since joining the O'Brien yard here.

Shane Crosse rode last Sunday, but on this occasion under Donnacha the chestnut found plenty when asked to get the better of Northern Sky by two lengths.

"It was grand because we bought her for only 2,500gns last November and now she's after winning a couple and is a nice filly and is after improving since the last day," said Joseph O'Brien, reportedly sending out his 200th winner. 

"I don't know how much more she can progress but she has won two races for us and she'll jump a hurdle eventually. She's not the simplest ride in the world and both Donnacha and Shane (Crosse) the last day gave her good rides to win."

The Stewards enquired into the running and riding of Almontaser (FR), ridden by Y. Narredu, and trained by John James Feane.

Evidence was heard from the rider and trainer concerned. Y. Narredu stated that his instructions were to jump out, get cover and to ride his best race from there.

From the off, his mount jumped out slowly and lost ground.

His mount made a noise in running, and from that stage he gave his mount a rest before giving him a second chance and running on.

John James Feane, confirmed the instructions given to Y. Narredu and stated that he was satisfied with the ride given to his charge considering that Almontaser is a horse of limited ability and that it was reported that he made a noise in running, however, in his opinion, Y. Narredu could have been more vigorous in the straight and may have finished closer.

The Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board Flat handicapper, Mr. Mark Bird, gave evidence regarding Almontaser's previous form.

The Stewards also received a report from the Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board Veterinary Officer who stated that Almontaser was blowing hard post race, coughed during examination was coughing intermittently post examination.

Having viewed the recording of the race and considered the evidence, including veterinary evidence, the Stewards noted the explanations offered.

Y. Narredu, rider of Almontaser (FR) trained by John James Feane, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount made a noise at the top of the hill.

(TW & EM)