See also » Dempseys-could-be-Cheltenham-bound-with-Derrinross
He did it the hard way and he didn't jump as well today but Luke said he was looking around in front,. He came out of his race well the last day and we were very happy with him. I was sort of thinking the others underperformed at Cork and he obviously had to step up and he was also giving away weight. We might have to look at bigger things now and while we mightn't get a wet spring, if he gets soft ground he could run at the Dublin Racing Festival. I'd be fond of going to Cheltenham, I've never been there, and if he got soft ground he'll run in the Albert Bartlett. I think he'll be better with a stronger gallop. He's had plenty of issues and thankfully now he has bounced out and hopefully tomorrow he'll be the same. We've had a great Christmas. J P Dempsey, trainer

At the request of the Stewards, P. Townend, rider of Dorrells Pierji (FR), trained by W.P. Mullins, reported to the Stewards' Secretaries that his mount was dissappointing and unable to account for the reason

The Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board Veterinary Officer examined Dorrells Pierji (FR), trained by W.P

Mullins, at the request of the Stewards and reported the animal to be coughing post race.

A novice hurdle race for four yrs old and upwards
Weights - 4-y-o 10st 12lb; 5-y-o and up 11st 3lb; Mares allowed 7lb
Penalties - (handicaps excluded) Winner of three hurdle races or of a Grade 3 hurdle race 3lb extra; Of two Grade 3 hurdle races or of a Grade 2 hurdle race 5lb extra; Of a Grade 1 hurdle race 7lb extra