The Referrals Committee, Mr Jack Rearden (Chairman), Mr C P Magnier and Mrs Justice Siobhan Keegan convened at Navan Racecourse prior to racing on Sunday, 9 February 2025 to consider the referral of Carl Millar (Rider) following the Irish EBF Paddy & Maureen Mullins Mares Handicap Hurdle at Leopardstown on 2 February 2025.

On the day, the Raceday Stewards enquired into the first approach to the Starter by the field but as Mr Millar, rider of Media Naranja, was unable to attend the Stewards Enquiry, the matter in relation to his conduct at the start of this race was referred to the Referrals Committee.

At the Referrals Committee hearing, evidence was heard from Mr Millar. The Referrals Committee also watched a recording of the race. 

In his evidence, Mr Millar accepted that there was no flag raised by the Starter, therefore there was no signal to approach the start or to start the race. Mr Millar stated that he had made every effort to hold his mount back to the best of his ability.

Having considered the evidence, the Referrals Committee found Mr Millar in breach of Rule 208(v)(b), in that he had failed to obey the instruction of the starter. Having considered Mr Millar’s record in this regard, the Referrals Committee suspended Mr Millar for two racedays.

The referral was presented by Mr Paul Deegan, IHRB Stipendiary Steward

Suspension dates: 23, 27 February