The Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board (IHRB) has today confirmed that a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the apparent improvement in form of two horses trained by Declan Queally, Rocky’s Diamond and Diamond Nora, in their respective races at Limerick and Ballinrobe on 19 April 2024 has now concluded.

Following Diamond Nora’s win in the Bowers Bar & Restaurant Maiden Hurdle at Ballinrobe on 19 April 2024, the Raceday Stewards enquired into the apparent improvement in form of Mr Queally’s charge and having considered the explanations offered and having heard evidence from the IHRB Handicapper the matter was referred to the Referrals Committee for further investigation. On the same date, a second Horse, Rocky's Diamond, also trained by Mr Queally, was the subject of a Stewards Enquiry following its win in the OCS Recruitment Maiden Hurdle at Limerick and having considered the explanations offered and having heard evidence from the IHRB Handicapper the Raceday Stewards noted the explanations given. Evidence suggested that a significant gamble had occurred on the cross-card double at Limerick and Ballinrobe and, as a result, a comprehensive investigation by the IHRB followed.  

Central to the investigation was whether the apparent improvement in form, as noted by the IHRB Handicapper, represented a breach of the Rules of Racing. Interviews were conducted in respect of Diamond Nora and Rocky’s Diamond with the Trainer, the Authorised Representative, the Riders and other involved individuals.

The investigation by the IHRB included a comprehensive and independent evaluation of all form relating to both horses. While the improvement in Diamond Nora’s performance was unusual compared to her two previous starts on the racecourse and Rocky’s Diamond's win coincided with specific betting patterns, neither case presented sufficient, corroborated evidence to substantiate allegations of a breach of Rule 212 or related provisions.

Following the investigation and taking account of all available evidence, the IHRB will not be taking further action in respect of these races. The Trainer has been reminded of his obligations under the Rules, in particular those pertaining to reporting obligations under Rule 213 of the Rules of Racing.