The Referrals Committee, Mr. N. B. Wachman (in the chair), Mr. M.C. Hickey and Mr. Joseph M. McGrath convened at the Offices of the Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board, The Curragh, Co. Kildare on Wednesday, 20th March 2019 to consider whether or not Joseph Patrick O’Brien, Trainer, was in breach of any rules as a result of the late arrival of Wishmoor, into the Parade Ring at Naas on 10th March 2019 prior to the running of the Toalsbet Bookmakers Leinster National Handicap Chase (Grade A).
The Committee considered written evidence from Mr. O’Brien which advised that he had not been in attendance on the day and a number of his staff were traveling for Cheltenham. His staff member in attendance had two horses to saddle for the race in question and due to issues with the girths for Wishmoor the horse was delayed entering the Parade Ring.
Having considered the evidence, the Referrals Committee noted that Mr. O’Brien accepted that the horse had not entered the Parade Ring in time and found him in breach of Rule 32(ii). A fine of €100 was imposed.
The case presented to the Committee by Cliodhna Guy, Head of Licensing, Legal and Compliance.