Horse Racing: Mullins loses Scolardy appeal

Willie Mullins’ appeal against Scolardy’s disqualification at the beginning of the month has been dismissed by the Irish Turf Club.

Scolardy finished first in the Cashmans Bookmaker Juvenile Hurdle on February 10 but was disqualified and placed second after being judged to have caused interference to second horse Newhall.

The Appeals and Referrals Committee heard evidence from Scorlardy’s rider Ruby Walsh, Fran Flood, the jockey on Newhall and Norman Williamson who rode Turtleback in the race. Mullins also gave evidence.

But after reviewing footage of the film and hearing what was said the Committee decided to dismiss the appeal and Newhall kept the race.

The Committee also heard an inquiry into the running of the Tony Martin-trained Dantes Reef at Down Royal on January 16.

The horse won the Duke of York (C&G) Maiden Hurdle on that day but failed a urine test after traces of Flunixin was found in the sample.

The Committee decided to disqualify Dantes Reef from race and awarded the victory to Royal Tilande. Martin was also fined Euro 260 for a breach of rules.