Following a report from the IHRB Starter Mr D Cullen after the Mighty Women Awards Mares Handicap Hurdle at Downpatrick on 11 August 2024, the Raceday Stewards wished to interview Rachael Blackmore, rider of Cobra Queen, regarding an incident at the start of the race. However, as Ms Blackmore had left the racecourse, the Raceday Stewards referred the matter on to a Senior Racing Official.

The matter was investigated thoroughly by the IHRB, including:

• ·  a review of video footage of the race start

• ·  a review of statement from the stipendiary stewards

• ·  a formal interview with Ms Blackmore accompanied by Mr Andrew Coonan, Solicitor.

  During the interview with IHRB Senior Racing Officials, Ms Blackmore explained that on the day she had been very frustrated at what was a disorganised start and felt that she had been disadvantaged by the situation. Ms Blackmore conceded that she had not conducted herself in her usual professional manner and had used inappropriate language in the vicinity of the Starter. She apologised for this incident and gave an undertaking that the conduct in question would not be repeated. As regards the suggestion that she left the racecourse prior to 10 minutes after the “Winner All Right” announcement, Ms Blackmore apologised for not being available on the day and explained that, although she had needed to leave promptly, there had been no intention on her part to leave earlier than permitted and that if she had done so it was entirely accidental.

  Upon review of the available evidence, the IHRB was of the view that a charge of a breach of Rule 229(v) on the part of Ms Blackmore was not warranted. Additionally, in respect of Ms Blackmore’s conduct at the start of the race, the IHRB has concluded that this did not reach the threshold of seriousness to warrant a hearing before a Referrals Committee under Rule 272.

Following the interview and in light of Ms Blackmore’s apology and undertaking, the IHRB formally reminded Ms Blackmore of her obligations under Rules to ensure her conduct and behaviour do not bring Irish racing into disrepute and will not be taking further action in respect of this matter.