Ambrose McCurtin and John Joe Walsh© Photo Healy Racing
Trainer John Joe Walsh and rider Ambrose McCurtin were sanctioned by the Limerick stewards yesterday over the running and riding of Delightfantastic in the first division of the Crecora Mares Maiden Hurdle at the course.
The six-year-old daughter of Yeats which had failed to win in five point-to-points outings and five bumper races was making her debut over hurdles in the opening race of the afternoon. Settled towards the rear by McCurtin the 25/1 shot made moderate late gains to finish in 7th place of the 14 runners, over 32 lengths behind the winner.
Having heard evidence from both the rider and trainer and having viewed a recording of the race the stewards were satisfied that the pair were in breach of Rule 212.A(ii).
Having taken their previous records into consideration the stewards suspended McCurtin from riding for 21 race days and fined Walsh €3,000.
Delightfantastic will not be permitted to race again for sixty days.
