DOWN ROYAL/Course problems: Invading rabbits have managed to stop the two steeplechases planned for Down Royal tomorrow from being run.

The two races were abandoned after a course inspection yesterday found that marauding bunnies may have taken up residence under the chase course nearest to the boundary ditch along the back straight.

"They seem to have burrowed under the surface and until we investigate we have no idea how extensive the problem might be. But safety has to be of paramount importance," said the Turf Club spokesman Sean Barry yesterday.

A similar problem occurred at Down Royal almost 15 years ago after which a rabbit-proof boundary was put in place on the outskirts of the course. But the current crop of carrot-burners may have tunnelled their way back in.

"The course was inspected and some evidence was found. There are signs of activity, but until it is fully investigated we won't know for certain.

"There may be nothing at all. But we couldn't investigate before the meeting so the chases have been abandoned," explained the Down Royal manager Mike Todd.

"It's a real pain but if there is a problem it won't take long to sort out," he added.

Two other races have been divided to make up a six-race card tomorrow. The ground forecast is for "soft".

Horse Racing Ireland announced yesterday that they are sponsoring the inaugural Irish Stablestaff Awards at the end of the month.

Dan Kirwan of the Stablestaff Association said: "The whole ideal is to heighten the public image and profile of stable staff and encourage our industry to reward and look after staff properly."

The HRI chief executive Brian Kavanagh added: "We are happy to sponsor these awards and recognise the dedication and hard work that stable staff contribute to the industry."