Result of an enquiry (Neil Mulholland) heard by the Disciplinary Panel on Thursday 13 November

13 Nov 2014 Disciplinary Panel - Other decisions

The Disciplinary Panel of the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) on Thursday 13 November 2014 held an enquiry to consider an objection to THE YOUNG MASTER, trained by Neil Mulholland, placed first in the Badger Ales Trophy at Wincanton on 8 November 2014 on the grounds that the gelding, having not previously run at least three times in a steeple chase in Great Britain, Ireland and/or France, was not qualified by Rule (F)42.5 to be entered or run in the race. Also whether or not, Mulholland in his capacity as the trainer of THE YOUNG MASTER, had committed a breach of Rule (C)37 of the Rules of Racing in respect of him declaring the gelding in the race when it was not qualified to run.

The Panel heard submissions from the BHA and Mulholland.

The Panel noted the error occurred due to an unfortunate sequence of events resulting in the gelding being allowed to run when not qualified. However, whilst having some sympathy for Mulholland, the Panel noted it was ultimately the trainers responsibility under Rule (C)37 to ensure that a horse is eligible to be declared.

Therefore the Panel found Mulholland in breach of Rule (C)37 and imposed a fine of £250 upon him.

Under Rule (A)74.2 the Panel disqualified THE YOUNG MASTER from the race placing COURT BY SURPRISE (IRE) first, ALFIE SPINNER (IRE) second, WORKBENCH (FR) third, BENVOLIO (IRE) fourth, JUST A PAR fifth and OPENING BATSMAN (IRE) sixth.

 

Notes to editors:

1. The Panel for the enquiry was: William Barlow (Chair), Diana Powles, Edward Dorrell.