The Referrals Committee, Mr. Peter M. Allen (in the chair), Mr. Peter N. Reynolds, and Mr. Finbar Cahill convened via Zoom on Wednesday, 27th January, to consider the referral of M.M. Rice (Trainer) in relation to the identification of Jinxs Link which was due to run on 18th November 2021 at Thurles.
On the day, the identity of the horse could not be confirmed and was therefore withdrawn by the Stewards and the matters was referred to the IHRB for further consideration.
At the Referral Hearing, the committee considered a written submission from Mr. Rice.
In his submission, Mr. Rice said that on arrival at Thurles the microchip could not be found and the Racecourse Veterinary Officer on the day checked the horses markings and gave him a new marking chart and a blood sample which he left into Weatherbys on the way home to confirm the DNA of the horse. A new microchip has also been implanted.
Having considered the evidence, the Referrals Committee were satisfied that Mr. Rice was in breach of Rule 90 in that the identity of the horse could not be positively identified. Having considered his record in this regard, they imposed a fine of €350.
The case was presented by Mr. Michael Daly, IHRB Regulatory Legal Advisor