The Referrals Committee, Mr Laurence McFerran (Chairman), Mr Anthony Byrne and Mr Noel McCaffrey convened at the Offices of the Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board on Tuesday, 14 January to consider the referral of Calum Hogan (Rider) following the Adare Manor Opportunity Series Handicap Steeplechase at Leopardstown on 29 December 2024.

On the day, the Raceday Stewards enquired into the circumstances surrounding a false start prior to the running of this race. The Raceday Stewards wished to interview Mr Hogan, rider of Harvey’s Quay, however Mr Hogan was unable to attend the enquiry as he was receiving medical attention following a fall and as a result the Raceday Stewards referred the matter to the Referrals Committee.

At the Referrals Committee hearing, evidence was heard from Mr Hogan.

In his evidence, Mr Hogan 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 Hogan stated that his mount was quite fresh as he was returning from a break and he had made every effort to pull his mount back.

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

The referral was presented by Mr Liam Walsh, IHRB Senior Stipendiary Steward.

Suspension dates: 28 January