Coach Tony Martin’s suspension extended by two months after rule violations in Newcastle

Tony Martin, currently serving a three-month suspension, has been banned for a further two months and fined by the Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board (IHRB). The additional suspension was imposed following his conduct following Alphonse Le Grande (Ire)’s (Sea The Stars {Ire}) victory in the Northumberland Vase.

Martin was originally banned for a period of six months (three suspended) for breaching anti-doping rules. Martin’s sister Cathy O’Leary now holds his training licence, but Martin was present in the paddock both before and after the race in Newcastle and appeared to be teaching rider Hollie Doyle.

The trainer’s actions were deemed by the IHRB Appeals Committee to be a “flagrant disregard for the rules” which had “brought the reputation of horse racing into disrepute”, resulting in a further two-month suspension from August 16 to October 16 and a €5,000 fine. Their verdict was that the former trainer had committed a “significant breach of Rules 272(i) and 273(xiii) which undermined the regulator and damaged the reputation of the horse racing industry by continuing to operate as a trainer after his licence had been revoked”. His quick apology after the race was recognised by the IHRB and the sanctions were reduced accordingly. However, Martin said Doyle had asked him for advice on how to approach the race, a statement the jockey has since confirmed.

Martin’s statement read: “I sincerely apologise for my behaviour during the Northumberland Vase. I fully understand that my behaviour was inappropriate given my current suspension. I allowed my enthusiasm and passion for the sport to get the better of me and for that I am deeply sorry.”

“I accept the consequences of my actions and will fully comply with any disciplinary measures imposed. I apologize to the racing community, officials and fans for the disappointment caused.”

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This story was posted in Europe, Shared News Europe, Top News Europe and tagged Cathy O’Leary, IHRB, Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board, Northunberland Vase, suspension, suspension extension, Tony Martin.