The Referrals Committee, Sean Barry (in the Chair), Philip Caffrey and N.B. Wachman met at the Turf Club, Curragh, Co Kildare on Tuesday, 3rd February 2015 to consider the referral of Gearoid Brouder, rider, by the Stewards at Dundalk on 2nd January 2015, following the running of the Crowne Plaza Leading Jockey and Trainer Championship Handicap.  On the evening the Stewards were unable to conduct an enquiry into his use of the whip on his mount “Singapore Secret” as Mr Brouder had departed the track, despite having been informed that he was required to attend an enquiry.

Evidence was heard from Gearoid Brouder.  Film of the race was also viewed.

In his evidence Gearoid Brouder outlined the reasons why he had to leave the track after being called to attend the enquiry.  He said the reasons were outside of his control.

With regard to what occurred in the race he accepted that he used the whip with excessive frequency.  He said he got over excited as he thought his horse was going to win.  He said that since Dundalk he has been regularly attending RACE with a view to improving his ability to use the whip correctly.  He is also being tutored by his Master, Michael O’Callaghan.

Having considered the evidence, the Referrals Committee confirmed that Gearoid Brouder had used his whip with excessive frequency and found him to be in breach of Regulation 10 3(f).  He was suspended for 3 race days (February 20th & 27th and March 6th).  The Committee accepted the reasons advanced for his non-attendance at the enquiry at Dundalk and took no further action.

The case was presented by Paul Murtagh, Stipendiary Steward.