Image © Healy Racing
IHRB Point to Point Stewards Enquiry North Down (F) Point to Point Meeting, Saturday 21 March 2026
The Acting Stewards received a report from Mr Barry Ferguson, Clerk of the Scales and Ms Erin Moorehead, Assistant Clerk of the Scales, in relation to the conduct of Mr Darragh Higgins, rider, and Mr Dara McGill, rider, at the scales throughout the course of the day at this fixture. Evidence was heard from Mr Ferguson, Ms Moorehead and both riders concerned.
Having considered the evidence and taken both riders previous records into consideration, the Acting Stewards cautioned Mr Higgins and Mr McGill under the provisions of Regulation 22 (xv) and reminded both riders of their responsibilities towards volunteer Officials when weighing-out and weighing-in in the future.
Island Hunt (F) Point to Point Meeting Sunday 22 March 2026
The Acting Stewards interviewed Mr R. James, rider of Catalani, placed second, concerning his use of the whip in the closing stages of the Open Lightweight. Evidence was heard from the rider concerned who accepted he was in breach of the relevant whip regulation.
Having viewed a recording of the race and considered the evidence, the Acting Stewards were of the opinion that the rider was in breach of Regulation 58. 3. (h) in that he had used the whip with his arm being or appearing to be above shoulder height. Having taken his previous record into consideration, the Acting Stewards suspended Mr R. James for one Point to Point raceday.
The Acting Stewards interviewed Ms L.P. McDonald, rider of An Puca Liath, placed second, concerning her use of the whip in the closing stages of the 5 & 6yo Mares Maiden . Evidence was heard from the rider concerned who accepted she was in breach of the relevant whip regulation.
Having viewed a recording of the race and considered the evidence, the Acting Stewards were of the opinion that the rider was in breach of Regulation 58. 3.(i) in that she had used the whip without allowing or appearing to allow her mount at least three strides to respond. Having taken her previous record into consideration, the Acting Stewards suspended Ms L.P. McDonald for one Point to Point raceday.
