Claiming rider Jimmy Mansell partnered his first double at Clonmel on Saturday, but will probably be remembered for a less savoury incident when suspended 14 days for hitting another rider with his whip.
Mansell's second win of the afternoon aboard Keepakicker in the Clonmel Oil/Statoil Opportunity Handicap Hurdle was the main talking point. Aimees Mark looked sure to land a gamble until falling just after the second last hurdle. Keepakicker had further luck on his side when weakening long-time leader Macs-Bet fell at the last, leaving Eric McNamara's charge to beat Native Of Kerry by 15 lengths.
However Mansell (19) was hauled before the stewards following an incident on the downhill run after three out, where he struck Aimees Mark's partner Emmet Stack across his right arm with his whip. He was ordered to forfeit his riding fee, and the 14 racing days ban will run from December 19 to January 9.
Mansell earlier initiated a 79/1 double on Its A Goal in the opening mares maiden hurdle. The six-year-old, who benefited from a last flight blunder by favourite Tobeornotobe, is trained near Thurles by Tim Doyle who is enjoying his best ever tally with 18 winners under both codes (Flat and National Hunt).
The beginners chase was another incident-packed affair, with Copernicus avoiding a series of casualties to beat the well-backed Just Our Job by four and a half lengths. Shay Barry was taken to hospital for precautionary x-rays after being kicked in the back when unseated from Tippthecat, while Barry Geraghty hopes to fit to ride at Punchestown after injuring his left knee when his mount Tuesday was brought down two out.
Geraghty had better luck earlier in the day when Find The King easily took the 3YO Maiden Hurdle, and was given a 33/1 quote by Cashmans for the Triumph Hurdle.
Paul Carberry extended his advantage at the head of the riders championship with a double aboard chase winners Sabbatical and Wilton Bridge.
