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IHRB Probes Punchestown Mix-Up After Wrong JP McManus Horse Runs in Novice Chase

Raceday rules prevented any change to the earlier result once 'winner all right' was signalled.

Overview

  • Centreofattention was declared for a later maiden hurdle but pre-race scanning identified the presented runner as stablemate Don’t Tell Jack.
  • It emerged Centreofattention had already competed in the earlier 2m½f novice chase, finishing seventh despite having no previous runs over fences.
  • Both horses are owned by JP McManus and trained by Enda Bolger, and Mark P. Walsh rode in the novice chase in which the mix-up occurred.
  • Stewards withdrew Centreofattention from the fifth race and interviewed authorised representative Frank Berry, rider Walsh, veterinary officer Joan Taylor and veterinary assistant James Casey.
  • The case was referred to a Senior Racing Official for further investigation, with senior officials J. Collins and C. J. O’Reilly recusing themselves.