The Referrals Committee, Mr N B Wachman (Chairman), Mr Anthony Byrne and Mr Raymond J McSharry convened at the offices of the Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board on Wednesday, 5 June 2024 to consider whether Mr Aidan Howard (Trainer) was in breach of any rules of racing arising from a stable inspection carried out at his Training Establishment on 22 March 2023 by IHRB officials.

On the day, the inspection team observed Mr Howard riding a horse without wearing a back protector which contrary to the requirements of Rule 148(v)(b).

At the hearing evidence was heard from Mr Howard.

In his evidence, Mr Howard accepted he was in breach of the Rule and explained that it was an oversight on his behalf as he had been switching from yard duties to riding out on the day of inspection.

Having considered the evidence, the Referrals Committee imposed a fine of €200.

The case was presented by Ms Clíodhna Guy, IHRB Head of Governance and Legal.