Turf Club reserve judgement on running of Ted Walsh-trained Foxrock

The Turf Club has reserved judgement after a day-long hearing into the running of the Ted Walsh-trained Foxrock at Punchestown in December.

The hearing concluded at 7.45pm on Saturday evening after evidence was heard throughout the day at Turf Club headquarters at the Curragh.

Trainer Walsh and rider Adrian Heskin were originally interviewed following the race, in which Foxrock finished third, with the local stewards hearing from the on-course veterinary officer that the horse had lost both front shoes during the race.

The only action taken was to suspend Heskin for one day for failing to report the matter.

Fresh video evidence subsequently became available to the regulating body, prompting the reopening of the inquiry in front of the Turf Club’s Referrals Committee.

The hearing started at 10am, with Grand National-winning trainer Walsh, who was represented by former attorney general and minister for justice Michael McDowell, giving evidence for around an hour and 20 minutes.

Trainers Aidan O'Brien and Willie Mullins were among the expert witnesses called, together with several vets and farriers.

After the hearing finished Turf Club chief executive Denis Egan said: "There were 19 witnesses called, seven from the Turf Club and 12 from the other side. There were two inquiries, the original race and post-race.

“Judgement was reserved and will be communicated in writing to both parties.

“There is a volume of evidence to consider.”