Barry Geraghty handed very severe ban for Limerick ride

Barry Geraghty was handed a 30-day ban by the Limerick stewards for his ride in second on Noble Emperor in the Book Online At www.limerickraces.ie Handicap Hurdle.

All the jockeys bar Barry Cash, who rode the winner Velocity Boy, were invited in by the officials to explain why they allowed the eventual victor so much of a lead, one which proved unassailable.

Geraghty on the Tony Martin-trained runner finished strongly, but was still beaten 11 lengths. Despite the JP McManus-owned Noble Emperor losing a shoe he was found to be post-race normal.

Acting under Rule 212, which governs running and riding, the stewards banned Geraghty for 30 days, with the horse prevented from running for 60 days and Martin fined €3,000.

The ban could prove very costly for Geraghty, as it is due to begin on April 17 which would rule him out of the Punchestown Festival.

Geraghty, who could be expected to have a host of big rides at Punchestown in his first season as retained rider to McManus, declined to comment afterwards when asked for his reaction, but did admit to being shocked at the suspension.