The Referrals Committee, Mr. Peter N. Reynolds (in the chair), Ms. Justice Siobhan Keegan and Dr. Frank Kenny convened at Navan Racecourse on Saturday 4th December, to consider the referral of John Joseph Murphy (Trainer) in relation to the identification of Pessoa (GB) which was due to run on 18th June 2021 at Limerick.
On the day, the identity of the horse could not be confirmed and was therefore withdrawn by the Stewards and the matter was referred to the IHRB for further consideration.
At the Referral Hearing, the committee considered a written submission from Mr. Murphy.
In his submission, Mr. Murphy explained that his Travelling Head Girl was on annual leave on the day in question and that the person responsible in her absence had brought the incorrect horse to the races.
Having considered the evidence, the Referrals Committee were satisfied that Mr. Murphy was in breach of Rule 90 and reminded him of his responsibilities. They imposed a fine of €350.