THERE was a dramatic sequel to the Harp Lager Handicap Chase at Dundalk last evening when the contest was declared void by the stewards after the field failed to take the right course on the first circuit.
Timely Affair, trained by Arthur Moore and partnered by Francis Woods, came home the four lengths winner from Amme Enaek, with Willchris a further four and a half lengths adrift in third.
After a lengthy inquiry, which was deferred until after the sixth race, the stewards found that, by taking the wrong course, all the finishers were in breach of rule 215. The race was therefore declared void.
The incident was caused by a rail which divides the chase and hurdle course before the turn in. Confusion reigned as the Tote had to delay paying out on the sixth race, the Finches Handicap, won by Coast is Clear, who provided Willie Supple with a double, he having earlier scored earlier on Sofyaan in the Baileys Maiden Race.
Wood Leopard, trained by Charles O'Brien and carrying the colours of his father Vincent, justified odds on favouritism in the Louth Vinteners Association Maiden. Subjected to substantial support from evens to 4 to 9, the Woodman colt won snugly by three lengths.
