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Sam Ewing rode him in the claimer the other day and thought stepping up to seven might suit him but we already had him declared for this so we said there was nothing to lose, that we'd be positive and see how he gets on. His mark was blown after finishing tenth in the Coventry last year, when only beaten a few lengths, and if he couldn't win a maiden he was never going to win a handicap. He just needed to find his level. He'll have options over five, six and maybe even seven. We'll keep him busy. He only cost £8,000 and we were actually told that we'd never keep him sound. We got a small job done on him when we got him back and touch wood he hasn't had a lame day. James McAuley, trainer

The Stewards interviewed Michael Beresford, rider of Bluepower, trained by J.A.Stack, concerning his riding in the closing stages, where it appeared that he lost third position having stopped riding. Evidence was heard from the rider concerned who stated that he felt his mount was not responding and he stopped riding as a consequence

Having viewed the recording and considered the evidence, the Stewards were satisfied that Michael Beresford was in breach of Rule 212.A.(iv), in that he had failed to obtain his best possible placing as a result of easing his mount without good reason or stopping riding. Having considered Michael Beresford's record in this regard the Stewards suspended Michael Beresford for five racedays and ordered that he forfeit his riding fee. Michael Beresford was accompanied at this enquiry by Mr. Ambrose O'Mullane. Mr. C. Cunningham absented himself from this enquiry.

For three years old and upwards, maidens at starting
Weights - 9st 7lbs Fillies allowed 5lbs