Trainer Eamonn Sheehy has been hit with a double blow today with the news that two of his recent winners have been disqualified after traces of an illegal substance were found in both horses’ blood samples, having been unknowingly administered.
The two winners disqualified were Red Mills Chase (Grade 3) winner Rathgar Beau while Paddys Girl, winner of the Horse and Jockey Handicap Hurdle at Thurles on February 1, was also disqualified.
The Turf Club committee, including David Pim (chairman), Liam Ward and Mary Ann Onions, found that traces of the banned substance phenylbutazone were found in both horses’ blood samples. A E130 fine for Sheehy for each disqualification was waived because “the committee was satisfied the substance had been administered unknowingly and that the trainer had taken all reasonable precautions to avoid a breech of Rule 20 v.”
The Red Mills Chase (on February 14) has now been awarded to Tony Mullins’ Barrow Drive, with Garvivonian promoted to second, and Artic Copper third.
Paddys Girl’s disqualification from The Horse and Jockey Handicap Hurdle means that Cotton Picker has been promoted as the new winner, Little Ora is now second while Steel Band has been promoted to third.
