The Stewards enquired into the running and riding of Ballyronan Boy ridden by Ronan Whelan and trained by Mr Michael C Connell.
Evidence was heard from the rider and trainer concerned. Ronan Whelan, stated that his instructions were to drop in and take his time in order to get his mount to finish well, something he had failed to do when racing over 10 furlongs on his previous start.
With regard to today's running he stated that his mount got a little unbalanced in the early stages and was unable to quicken early in the home straight, but surprised him by staying on quite well close home at which point he felt he was about to run short of room and checked which, in hindsight, he stated was an over reaction on his part as there was ample room to make his challenge.
Michael C Connell confirmed the instructions and expressed satisfaction that R P Whelan had ridden to instructions. He also stated that his charge has potential but whose optimum conditions may well prove to be when racing over 8 furlongs with an ease in the ground. The Stewards also received a report from the Turf Club Veterinary Officer who stated that Ballyronan Boy was Post Race Normal.
Having viewed the video of the race and considered the evidence, the Stewards were of the opinion that the race course had been used as a training ground and therefore, after considering their previous records, fined Mr Michael C Connell €1500, found that R P Whelan had made insufficient effort and therefore suspended him for 7 race days and also ordered him to forfeit his riding fee. The Stewards also suspended Ballyronan Boy from racing for 60 days.
