Ms. Margaret O’Sullivan,  Trainer,

Referral  -  Limerick 16th March, 2008.

The Referrals Committee, Mrs. J.O. Onions (in the Chair), Capt. S.H. Walford and Mrs. T.K. Cooper, met in the Turf Club Offices, The Curragh, Co. Kildare, at 12.30 p.m. on Friday 4th April, 2008, to consider a referral from the Acting Stewards at Limerick on 16th March, 2008, when following the running of the Mullins Electrical Beginners Steeplechase the Stewards wished to hold an enquiry into the apparent improvement in form of “Jog On”, the winner, trained by Miss Margaret O’Sullivan, compared with its previous run at Naas on 9th February, when the horse was placed fourteenth, beaten ninety lengths.  The Stewards on the day were unable to proceed with the enquiry because the Trainer was not available, nor did she have an Authorised Representative available on the day.  The Committee heard evidence from Mr. Paul Murtagh, Steward Secretary on duty, Mr. Andrew Shaw, National Hunt Handicapper, Miss Margaret O’Sullivan, the Trainer, and a film of the race was also viewed. 

Having considered the evidence the Committee noted the explanation furnished by Miss O’Sullivan in respect of the improvement in form but found her to be in breach of Rule 147 (v) when failing to appoint an Authorised Representative and fined her €300.  The Committee also ordered Miss O’Sullivan to pay €700 towards cost incurred by the Turf Club.

The case was presented to the Committee by Mr. Brian Price of Wilkinson and Price Solicitors, Naas, Co. Kildare.