THE Turf Club's chief executive Denis Egan has explained why jockey Davy Russell has been cautioned over an alleged incident involving the treatment of his mount Kings Dolly at Tramore last Friday week.

The case was heard by the Referrals Committee before racing at Killarney on Saturday.

Footage from Tramore appeared to show the jockey striking the horse at a 'show' obstacle before the Flynn Hotel Group Mares Handicap Hurdle at the evening fixture, subsequently creating a stir on social media.

The raceday stewards were not aware of the matter, but the Turf Club has powers to take retrospective action where appropriate.

Speaking to At The Races after the 25-minute hearing, Egan said: "Davy was very fair in giving evidence. He said the horse was not paying attention as they approached the hurdle. He regretted not letting the mare jump the hurdle and facing the consequences. He was not allowed to use his whip so he used his hand, which was holding the whip, to strike the horse on the soft part of the neck. He absolutely accepted he was wrong. He was very remorseful for his actions and I have absolutely no doubt he wont do it again."

Russell told At The Races: "Obviously it is a relief it is over. It was an unfortunate incident that maybe got misinterpreted by the general public. That is the way the stewards felt and they were happy with the inquiry."

Speaking to the Irish Daily Star earlier this week, Russell said: "I didn't do anything out of the ordinary. I'm not sure everyone on social media quite understands how a thoroughbred racehorse handles at race time."