TOMMY TREACY took full advantage of Conor O'Dwyer's absence at Clonmel yesterday when successfully deputising on the Wexford man's three spare rides to register his fist treble.
O'Dwyer, who was among the 700 guests at a sports reception hosted by Britain's Queen Elizabeth in Buckingham Palace on Monday evening, failed to arrive at the Tipperary venue, leaving Treacy to pick up the winning thread on the well-supported Maryobee, trained by John Berry, in the Templemore Maiden Hurdle.
Francie Somers who acquired a licence only last month after spending time with Ton# Redmond, Padge Berry and Nicky Henderson provided Treacy with the second leg of his three-timer when Comkilred recorded a smooth success in the Tipperary Maiden Hurdle.
Another Deadly, well supported from 4 to 1 to 9 to 4 favourite, cruised past front-running Carrolls Rock over the penultimate fence in the Clonmel Novice Chase over the second last to complete Treacy's fortuitous afternoon.
The delighted rider said: "I came here for two rides, picked-up another three and now I'm going home after landing my first treble as a rider."
Dungarvan trainer Ronnie Curran Was the subject of a stewards inquiry after Turf Club veterinary officer, Dr Maire O'Connor, told the officials that in the course of her duties in the stable yard, she observed a substance being administered to his charge, Without Equal.
In her opinion, the substance, Cromovet, was prohibited under the rules of racing as it had an effect on the respiratory and immune system.
Emmet Curran, groom in charge and son of the trainer, accepted Dr O'Connor's findings and advised that he had administered the substance on the approval of a veterinary surgeon. Ronnie Curran stated he was fully aware of his responsibility concerning his runners and acted in this case on veterinary opinion.
The stewards, having considered evidence, ordered the withdrawal of Without Equal from the Kilkenny Handicap Hurdle won by Andrew McNamara's Kercorli and referred the matter to the Appeals and Referrals Committee.
Carlow trainer Willie Mullins completed a first and last race double, sparked off with Marlonette, who battled back bravely after relinquishing the advantage over the final flight to beat No Avail in the opening Vee Hurdle.
Mullins, who completed the brace in the concluding bumper with See Just There, is unsure about plans for Marlonette: "She is entered for the Triumph Hurdle in Cheltenham and we will see whether she travels there or stays at home."
Mullins had more positive news about Cheltenham bumper hope Florida Pearl: "The horse is very, very well. Richard Dunwoody worked him after racing at Punchestown on Sunday and if Richard is not committed to ride he will ride my horse."
