Gordon Elliott & Noel Meade in surreal live RTE moment as they react to controversial Galway Hurdle ruling
Initially Meade's runner Helvic Dream
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It was a real heart in mouth moment as everyone stood still to hear the result
Credit: @RTESport
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Last year's runner-up was declared the winner after an inquiry
It just so happened that the two trainers involved in the dramatic finish were being interviewed by
In surreal scenes, both men trail off from their chat with Brian Gleeson to gaze up while listening to a voice on the Ballybrit PA system.
For all that was at stake though, the two Meath natives conducted themselves very well as Meade offered a congratulatory handshake while Elliott restrained himself from celebrating.
Slightly lost for words, the Cullentra handler admitted: "Ah look, I'm delighted to win the race.
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"But to be honest, Noel Meade's one of my best friends racing. I know how he's feeling now.
"We'll see,
Jockey Kennedy later gave his own reflections on the race's contentious climax.
The Kerry ace insisted: "It's not a nice way to get it, but I do feel I'd have won had I not received the interference.
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"I'm delighted we came out on the right side of it. If Donagh came off of me in the final 100 yards we'd have got going again."
Helvic Dream was an 8-1 shot in the hands of Donagh Meyler and settled down to fight it out with the 13-2 shot Ndaawi and Kennedy in the home straight.
Galway Races' Best Dressed Lady Megan Cunniss 'thrilled' after scooping coveted title & €10,000 prize for glam outfit
But the pair did come close together all the way up the run-in as horses and jockeys gave their all, with Ndaawi short of room against the far rail.
Gutted trainer Meade last night told how he believes it was 'the wrong decision' and he will appeal it.
He declared: 'I didn't think we'd lose it, considering the race and considering Jack Kennedy didn't have to stop riding.
"I do believe in my heart and soul it's the wrong decision and I will appeal it.'
BOOKIES BOTHERED
Bookies were also caught up in the drama.
Sean O'Keeffe started the day with a win as he guided Gold Dancer to victory in the Novice Chase for
And Tropical Island took the win in the Fillies Stakes.
Trainer Shark Hanlon said the festival is 'going good enough' but he's hopeful for some weekend winners, adding: 'We had a bad day the first day, but listen, I hadn't many runners yet until the weekend.
"So, please God, we might have a winner or two over the weekend.'
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