Bridgets Pet under John Fitzpatrick© Photo Healy Racing
Amateur John Fitzpatrick was handed a ten-day ban in the finale at Killarney tonight for his ride on joint-favourite Bridgets Pet
The Alan Fleming-trained gelding was held up well off the pace in rear in the early stages of the McSweeney Arms Hotel 65th Novice Chase and blundered at the first fence.
He did take closer order with over a circuit to run but found little when asked for an effort at the third last and eventually finished a well beaten fifth behind impressive winner Shesaportrait
Fitzpatrick was given the ban under Rule 212 having 'not taken all reasonable measures to attain his best possible placing'.
The following is the Turf Club report:-
The Stewards enquired into the running and riding of Bridgets Pet, ridden by Mr John J Fitzpatrick and trained by Alan Fleming. Evidence was heard from the trainer and rider concerned. Alan Fleming stated that in view of his charge being a keen type of runner and an inconsistent jumper he therefore instructed the rider to drop in off the pace, to take his time, get him to switch off and creep into the race. He added that his charge made a very bad mistake at the first fence but by then the rider was too far out of his ground and had over exaggerated the riding instructions. He felt that the rider should have been closer and it was apparent from an early stage that he could not get into the race. Mr John J. Fitzpatrick confirmed the riding instructions and stated that he dropped him in early but misjudged the slow pace and did not realise how far he was off the leaders so early in the race. He added that he did not want his mount to race at his fences and overall he was not satisfied with his position in the back straight . The Stewards also received a report from the Turf Club Veterinary Officer who stated that Bridgets Pet was sound post race. Having viewed the recording of the race and considered the evidence, the Stewards noted Alan Flemings explanation. They were of the opinion that Mr John J. Fitzpatrick was in breach of Rule 212(a)(i) and consequently suspended him for 10 racedays.
