The Referrals Committee, Sean Barry, (in the chair), T.L. Crawford and Mrs. T.K. Cooper met at the Turf Club, Curragh, Co. Kildare on Monday, 10th April 2017 to consider the referral of Jonathan Fogarty (Restricted Trainer) by the Stewards at Thurles on 9th March 2017 following the running of the Killinan Handicap Hurdle.

On the day the Stewards enquired into the apparent improvement in form of Coole Craft, trained by Jonathan Fogarty, placed first, compared with its recent run at Thurles over 2 miles 6 furlongs on the 9th February. The Stewards heard evidence from Dan Doyle, Authorised representative of Jonathan Fogarty who stated that this animal was reported by the rider to his trainer to have hung badly during the race at Thurles and subsequently was examined at home the next morning by Tom Hore M.R.C.V.S who found him to be very lame of his near fore shoulder which necessitated exercise on the horse walker for about one week. Mr Doyle added that blinkers were reapplied today over the minimum distance of two miles to help sharpen up the animal. The Stewards had also heard evidence from Andrew Shaw, Turf Club N.H. Handicapper.

Having considered the evidence the Stewards were of the opinion that the provisions of Rule 213 had not been complied with and referred the matter to the Referrals Committee.

Evidence was heard from Jonathan Fogarty who accepted that he had failed to make the necessary reports after the horse’s run at Thurles.

Having considered the evidence the Referrals Committee found that Jonathan Fogarty was in breach of Rule 213 (ii) and imposed a fine of €200.

The case was presented by Shay Quinn, Stewards Secretary.