The Referrals Committee, Mr Nick Wachman (Chairman), Mr Laurence McFerran and Mr Neil McGrath convened at Offices of the Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board on Tuesday, 15 October 2024 to consider a referral from a Senior Racing Official under Rule 27(vii) of the running and riding of Firm Belief, trained by Rodger Sweeney and ridden by Phillip Enright in the Buckley Agri New Holland Irish EBF Mares Maiden Hurdle at Listowel on Thursday, 26 September 2024.

This matter was referred following an investigation by a Senior Racing Official into possible breaches of Rule 212 by the Trainer and Rider.

At the Referral Hearing, the panel considered evidence from Mr Sweeney and Mr Enright. They also watched a recording of the race.

In his evidence, Mr Enright stated that his mount was not a natural jumper, and she switched lead after the third last hurdle and became unbalanced. Mr Enright stated that he moved out to his right in an attempt to get her balanced and to switch back onto the correct lead at the point of the home bend, Mr Enright accepted that he was riding on the previous days ground at this point but felt that it was of little consequence, and he was satisfied that he gave her the best possible ride.

In his evidence, Mr Sweeney confirmed the instructions he gave to Mr Enright. Mr Sweeney also explained that his charge is a difficult mare at times. Mr Sweeney confirmed he was happy with the ride that Mr Enright gave to his mare and stated that his main objective was to get form into the mare as he hoped to breed from her.

Having considered the evidence, the Referrals Committee noted the explanations offered and took no further action.

The case was presented by Mr Liam Walsh, IHRB Senior Stipendiary Steward. Mr Sweeney and Mr Enright were represented by Mr Patrick Kennedy of Patrick J. O’Meara Solicitors, Thurles, County Tipperary.