The Referrals Committee, Justice Tony Hunt (in the chair), Mr. Philip McLernon and Mr. Laurence McFerran convened at the Offices of the Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board (IHRB) on Monday 19th August 2019 to consider the referral of Gavin Cromwell (Trainer) by the Stewards at Cork on 12th July 2019.

On the day, following the running of the Clubs Fundraiser Night Maiden Hurdle, the Stewards wished to enquire into the running and riding of Flooring Porter, ridden by J.M. Moore, and trained by Mr. Cromwell. Prior to seeking evidence Zoe Smalley, representing Mr. Cromwell, confirmed that she was not registered as an Authorised Representative and furthermore a temporary registration form had not been lodged with the Clerk of the Scales. Having considered the admission by Ms. Smalley, the Stewards referred the subject matter to the Referrals Committee in accordance with the provisions of Rule 147(v).

The Referrals Committee viewed a recording of the race and heard evidence was heard from Mr. Cromwell and Mr. Moore in relation to the running and riding of Flooring Porter.

In his evidence, Mr. Cromwell outlined his instructions to Mr. Moore on the day and described himself to be overall satisfied with the ride but accepted that Mr. Moore could have been more vigorous in the closing stages.

Mr. Moore stated that he was unable to be in a mid-division position as was the plan prior to the race due to the strong gallop of the race and because his mount had jumped green at some hurdles.

Having considered the evidence, the Referrals Committee noted the explanations offered.

Evidence was also heard from Mr. Cromwell in relation to not having an Authorised Representative available on the day. Mr. Cromwell accepted that he was in breach of Rule 147(v) and as a result the Referrals Committee imposed a fine of €130 on Mr. Cromwell in respect of this breach.

The case was presented by Ms. Cliodhna Guy, Head of Licensing, Legal and Compliance.