G. Cully/M.J. Ferris/Novarra Referral – Cork, 15th October 2006

The Referrals Committee, Dr. Gordon A. Holmes (in the Chair), Mr. Edward Flannery and Mrs. J.O. Onions met at the Standhouse Hotel, The Curragh, Co. Kildare on 2nd November 2006 to consider the referral by the Acting Stewards at Cork on 15th October 2006 of G. Cully (trainer Novarra), M.J. Ferris (rider Novarra) and Novarra following the running of the Dairygold Fertility Booster Maiden Hurdle, as they were unable to hold an enquiry into the running and riding of Novarra because Mr. Cully’s authorised representative on the day, Ms. C. O’Leary was unaware of the riding instructions given by Mr. Cully to M.J. Ferris.

Evidence was heard from P.F. Graffin, Stewards Secretary, G. Cully and M.J. Ferris and a video of the race was also viewed.

Having considered the evidence the Committee found M.J. Ferris in breach of Rule 212 and fined him €200.  They also ordered that his riding fee be forfeited and passed to the Jockeys Accident Fund.

The case was presented by Mr. Brian Price, Wilkinson and Price Solicitors, Naas, Co. Kildare.