Bright Sunbird and Williams banned after Punchestown run

The stewards at Punchestown handed out a 10-day suspension to jockey Adam Williams and banned his mount Bright Sunbird from running for 42 days after the pair finished fifth in the Irish Stallion Farms EBF (Mares) Maiden Hurdle today. In addition, trainer Paul Nolan was fined €2,000.

The stewards report is below:

The Stewards enquired into the running and riding of Bright Sunbird, ridden by Adam Williams, and trained by Paul Nolan.

Evidence was heard from the rider and trainer concerned. Adam Williams, stated that his instructions were to jump off mid division or towards the rear, to settle his mount and to do the best he could.

He said his mount made jumping mistakes and was off the bridle from the start and never travelled throughout, but did pass tired horses in the closing stages. He further added that he was familiar with the animal having ridden her on two previous occasions, where her jumping had let her down and that he was mindful of this in his riding.

Paul Nolan, confirmed the instructions given and expressed his overall satisfaction with the ride. He was of the view that the rider could have put his charge into the race at an earlier stage, but was unsure if the animal would have finished out the race as well.

He outlined his charges previous form and stated that she had undergone intensive schooling in an attempt to give her confidence having fallen when on her first run over hurdles.

He further expressed his satisfaction with the run and in particular was delighted with her jumping throughout.

The Stewards also received a report from the Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board Veterinary Officer, who stated that Bright Sunbird was found to be post race normal.

Having viewed the recording of the race and considered the evidence, the Stewards were satisfied that Paul Nolan,trainer, was in breach of Rule 212.A(ii) and having considered his record, they fined him €2,000.

Furthermore, the Stewards were satisfied that Adam Williams, rider, was in breach of Rule 212A.(ii)and having considered his record, they suspended him for 10 race days and ordered that he forfeit his riding fee.

Furthermore, the Stewards suspended Bright Sunbird from running for a period of 42 days as a consequence of the riders actions in accordance with the provisions of Rule 212.C(d).