Down Royal running and riding enquiry leads to suspensions The Stewards enquired into the running and riding of Jack Wade, ridden by J.P. O'Sullivan, and trained by P.J.Rothwell. Evidence was heard from the rider and trainer concerned. J.P. O'Sullivan, stated that his instructions were to drop his mount in and give him every chance to finish well. He stated that he put his mount into the race the whole way around and that he was satisfied with his finishing place considering Jack Wade's previous poor form. Having viewed a recording of the race, J.P. O' Sullivan was of the opinion that he could have ridden a bit stronger by using his whip, however this would not have improved his finishing position. P.J. Rothwell stated that he instructed J.P. O' Sullivan to drop his charge in at the back and to give him every chance to get home. Jack Wade has struggled in his 2 previous runs and in P.J. Rothwell's opinion riding him this way would give him the best chance of finishing well. P.J. Rothwell also stated that his charge has improved since receiving a wind operation three months ago, and that he was satisfied with today's result. Having viewed a recording of the race, P.J. Rothwell was of the opinion that J.P. O' Sullivan should have ridden more aggressively in the latter stages of this race. The Stewards also received a report from the Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board Veterinary Officer who stated that Jack Wade was post race normal and samples were taken for analysis. Having viewed the recording of the race and considered the evidence, the Stewards noted the explanation offered by P.J. Rothwell. The Stewards were of the opinion that J.P. O' Sullivan was in breach of Rule 212 A (ii), and having considered his record in this regard suspended him for 5 racedays and ordered him to forfeit his riding fee. As a consequence of J.P. O'Sullivan's actions the Stewards suspended Jack Wade for 42 days.
