Heffernan loses appeal

SEAMUS Heffernan has lost his appeal against an 11-day riding suspension he received at Dundalk on February 4th. Heffernan admitted using his whip above shoulder height in a race on the day and, having taken the rider’s previous record into consideration, the 11-day ban was imposed.

Meade lodges appeal

NOEL Meade has lodged an appeal against the €2,000 ‘non-trier’ fine imposed on him by the stewards at Thurles last week over the running and riding of Bugs Moran, who finished fourth in a maiden hurdle.

Naas appointment

NIAMH Byrne (left) has been appointed marketing manager for Naas Racecourse. She succeeds Jackie Donohoe, who has taken a position with Horse Racing Ireland and Leopardstown, focusing on race sponsorship. Byrne has worked at Naas for five years.