Appeal loss
TRAINER Edward Cawley lost his appeal against a €3,000 fine imposed on him over the running of Fruits Of Glory at Punchestown in June. The horse was banned for 60 days under Rule 212, the non-trier rule, after finishing fifth. Jockey Chris Timmon did not appeal his 12-day suspension.
In a separate hearing, the Referrals Panel has disqualified Glendine River from first place in a handicap hurdle at Tramore on April 15th.
A post-race sample taken from the Dermot O’Brien-trained winner was found to contain omeprazole, an anti-ulcer drug which can be used legitimately out of training.
An inspection of O’Brien’s yard found inaccuracies in the medicines register, prompting the Referrals Committee to fine the trainer €1,000 over the rule breach.
The race was awarded to Vincent Halley’s Carrigready, ridden by Andrew Lynch.
Colic claims Finian’s Oscar
MULTIPLE Grade 1 winner Finian’s Oscar died earlier this week after suffering organ failure when being treated for colic.
Colin Tizzard’s gelding was bought for £250,000 by Tom Malone for Ann and Alan Potts at the Tattersalls November Cheltenham Sale, following an impressive win in a Portrush point-to-point.
He won two Grade 1s over hurdles and looked set for an exciting chasing career. His form dipped mid-season but he ended the campaign firmly on the upgrade.
After a determined Manifesto Chase win at Aintree, he held every chance in a Grade 1 at Punchestown before being brought down in the infamous Al Boum Photo incident.
Date set for charity hurling
TOP jockeys and GAA stars from around the country will be lining out for annual Hurling for Cancer Research match on Tuesday, August 14th at St Conleth’s Park in Newbridge, Co Kildare.
This is the seventh year the fundraiser is being organised by trainer Jim Bolger and jockey Davy Russell.
Further details will appear in next week’s edition.
President to attend Kilbeggan Friday
PRESIDENT Michael D. Higgins will attend Kilbeggan Races next Friday. It was confirmed earlier this week that President Higgins will seek re-election in October.
The feature event at Kilbeggan next Friday is the €50,000 Midlands National. Racing starts at 5.55pm and there is €124,000 in total prize money to be won.