Barry Geraghty may consider appeal against 30-day ban

Top Meath jockey Barry Geraghty may be considering an appeal after he was handed a 30-day (race days) ban by the stweards at Limerick this afternoon when he finished second on the Tony Martin-trained Noble Emperor 11 lengths behind the winner, Velocity Boy ridden by Barry Cash.

The ban is due to begin on Sunday 17th April and will rule the Meath jockey out of the Punchestown Festival (26th - 30th April).

The horse, owned by JP McManus, was banned for 60 days and the trainer was fined €3,000.

DETAILS

Evidence was heard from the rider and trainer.

The trainer stated that his instructions were to get some cover and try switch him off, bearing in mind that the horse can be keen. He added that the horse has disappointed in the past but should have enjoyed today's heavy conditions over two miles, despite having form over further.

The trainer expressed satisfaction with the ride and that the lost shoe had no bearing on the run on today's ground.

The jockey confirmed the instructions adding that the horse needs to be covered up and delivered late.

The jockey added that the winner quickly established a good lead at the start and circumstance meant that he was unable to chase the leader until the straight as he was riding strictly to instructions.

The Stewards also received a report from the Turf Club Veterinary Officer who stated that Noble Emperor was post-race normal, having lost a left fore shoe.

Having viewed the recording of the race and considered the evidence, the Stewards were of the opinion that the rider was in breach of Rule 212 having failed to take all reasonable and permissible measures to give his mount the full opportunity to win or obtain his best possible place and having considered his record suspended him for 30 race days and ordered that he forfeit his riding fee.

Furthermore the stewards also decided that the trainer was in breach of Rule 212 and having considered his record,fined him €3,000.

The Stewards suspended Noble Emperor for 60 days.

All the jockeys were interviewed.