Jack Kennedy had some formidable forces in the saddle in Conor Hoban and Sean Corby chasing him down, but the Kerry teenager again displayed his strength and skill to get Ruler Of France home by a head and a neck in the Vaughanshoes.ie KateAppleby Apprentice Handicap at Ballinrobe.

Kennedy soon had the blinkered son of Holy Roman Emperor in front, and try as they might Shes No Joke (Conor Hoban) and Chatterton (Sean Corby) couldn't find a way past inside the last, with four lengths back to Focas Mor in fourth.

Tipperary owner/trainer Paddy Twomey has Ruler Of France now since the autumn and he commented: "He is a nice horse and Jack gave him a good ride. He came well recommended.

"I was looking for a horse at the sales and Ryan (McElligott) and David (Wachman) recommended him to me. He done his job well and we are very happy to get a win."

R. Coakley, rider of Indy Gal trained by Patrick Martin, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount was struck into behind in running.

The Stewards received a report from Mick King, Turf Club security officer, in relation to the observation of a syringe in the stable of the winner, Ruler Of France, trained by P. Twomey.

Evidence was heard from Mick King who explained that he noticed the syringe while escorting the winner to the Veterinary officer for sampling. Evidence was heard from Mr. Terry Smyth, Senior turf club veterinary officer, who confirmed that the syringe in question was prohibited in the stable yard, in that it is not a bulb syringe.

Evidence was also heard from P.Twomey who stated that he was unaware of the particular Reguation in relation to syringe's. Having considered the report, the Stewards were of the opinion that the trainer was in breach of Regulation 9, in that he had a dosing syringe in the stable yard, without informing the Turf club veterinary officer and having considered his record in this regard,fined him 500 Euros.

The Turf Club Veterinary Officer examined Elusive In Paris trained by M.C. Grassick, at the request of the Stewards and reported the animal to have a sore right fore shin post race.

R. Coakley, rider of Indy Gal trained by Patrick Martin, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount was struck into behind in running.

(DM & EM)