The Referrals Committee, Judge Tony Hunt (in the Chair), Sean Barry and Hugh Ferguson met at the Turf Club, The Curragh, Co. Kildare on Tuesday, 20th August 2013 to enquire into an incident that took place in the Ladbrokes Handicap Hurdle at Galway on 3rd August, which involved Shamiran, ridden by D.E. Splaine, placed second, Sweet My Lord (FR), ridden by J.J. Burke whose mount clipped heels and unseated him, Balnaslow, ridden by D.J. Casey, unplaced and Aranhill Chief, ridden by R.T. Dunne, who was brought down in the incident.

The Stewards on the day were unable to conduct an enquiry as J.J. Burke was receiving medical attention and was unable to attend the enquiry.

The matter had been referred to the Referrals Committee by Denis Egan, Chief Executive of the Turf Club.

Evidence was heard from the D.E. Splaine, J.J. Burke, D.J. Casey and R.T. Dunne.  Film of the race was also viewed.

The evidence of all the riders pointed to the fact that general bunching was the main reason for the falls and they did not attribute blame for what occurred to any individual rider.

Having considered the evidence, and noting the explanations given by the riders, the Referrals Committee agreed that general bunching was the reason for the falls and took no further action.

The case was presented by Conal Boyce, Solicitor, Naas, Co. Kildare.