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 O’Brien (Trainer) was in breach of any rules of racing arising from a stable inspection carried out at his Training Establishment on 16 April 2024 by IHRB officials.

During the inspection, two members of staff were observed not wearing a back protector while riding out. Under Rule 148(xi)(b) Trainers must ensure that any riders riding horses under their care must use approved safety equipment.

At the Referral Hearing, the committee considered a written submission from Mr O’Brien.

In his submission, Mr O’Brien stated that he was very disappointed that two of his exercise riders were not wearing back protectors while riding out on the day of the inspection. Mr O’Brien explained that the health and safety of the staff and horses at Ballydoyle Racing is something that is taken very seriously and treated with the upmost importance. Mr O’Brien added that in the specific area of exercise riders wearing back protectors, they have a number of measures and policies in place to try to ensure that riders adhere to the health and safety measures.

Having considered the evidence, the Referrals Committee found Mr O’Brien in breach of Rule 148(xi)(b) and having considered his record in this regard imposed a fine of €400.

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