The Ryans knew they had a good one John Ryan and his family are getting a great tune out of their team of horses and the win of Reafadda on his debut in division one of the Suir Valley INH Flat Race at Clonmel wasn't unexpected as Pa King's mount was backed from 12/1 into 7/1. The first-timer, a son of Zagreb, made all and ran straight and true along the rail from over a furlong out to beat the favourite Who's Cross by a length. In truth Willie and Patrick Mullins' Who's Cross gave it away by veering to his left in the closing stages though in fairness to the winner they left the third placed Cloudy Morning thirteen lengths behind. Ryan enthused afterwards: "I bought his full-brother just the other night and I'll probably sell this fellow now – he's a real top horse. "He has a big engine – he's the real deal. He just missed the point-to-points and he stays, stays and stays. "He'd go on any ground but he'd be better on good ground. He's a brilliant jumper as well. We knew coming here that he had a serious chance." The Stewards received a report from Mr J.P. McKeown, rider,that his mount Rory’s Brother stumbled and fell independently in the latter stages of this race. The Stewards also received a report from Miss K. O’Farrell, rider, that her mount was taking a strong hold racing to the bottom of the hill on the first circuit when the filly clipped heels and fell through no fault of any other runner. Having considered the reports, the Stewards noted the content. The Stewards interviewed Mr.J.E.Burns, rider of Desert Shore, concerning the use of the whip in this race. Evidence was heard from the rider concerned. Having viewed the video of the race and considered the evidence, the Stewards were of the opinion that Mr. Burns was in breach of Regulation 10 having used his whip excessively and without giving his mount time to respond. Having taken his record into account the stewards cautioned him concerning his future responsibilities in this regard. (DM & EM)
