The Referrals Committee, Judge Tony Hunt (in the Chair), Sean Barry and Hugh M. Ferguson met at the Turf Club, Curragh, Co. Kildare to consider the referral of Norman Cassidy, trainer, following the refusal of Asiya to start in the Kilcawley Construction Sligo Mares Handicap Hurdle at Sligo on 5th May 2013.  The matter was referred as Asiya had already been subject to a 60 day ban from racing from starting stalls, which was incurred at Leopardstown on 15th April 2013, where she refused to race.

Evidence was heard from Norman Cassidy who said that he couldn’t understand why his mare was refusing to race, in view of the fact that she had schooled successfully through stalls on a number of occasions, and had also won a schooling hurdle race in recent weeks.  Mr. Cassidy said he would not run her again unless he was happy she was going to start.  He also said that the mare would be put in foal and that he was hopeful that this would also help.

Having considered the evidence, the Referrals Committee disqualified Asiya from running in future subject to a stay being put on the disqualification for as long as she does not refuse to race.

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