McConnell frustrated by Rutledge suspension

Siobhan Rutledge received a boost with a win on Higher Kingdom today, landing Dundalk's Crowne Plaza Dundalk Race & Stay Handicap before the 5lb claimer completes a two-month suspension incurred at the venue last week.

Higher Kingdom was a six-length course winner in December and today was produced from mid-field, to lead inside the final furlong for a three parts of a length success over Burren Song

Rutledge incurred a nine-day whip suspension on Friday's runner-up Gracesolution and today's winning trainer, her employer John McConnell reported “you can see Higher Kingdom is quirky, he is going diagonally up the straight. He doesn't find a lot for whip, he's more a hands and heels ride but has ability and obviously stays this trip.

"It was a really good ride and, unfortunately, Siobhan has got nine days for the whip last week. Really when you look at nine days at this time of year, it isn't really fair.

"The crime doesn't justify the punishment and the powers that be need to have a look at separating things between the all-weather and the turf. Nine days in May is a big difference to nine days here - for something a couple of smacks over the limit in a tight finish.

"I think she is suspended until the turf season starts - it is more than a month, which is very frustrating for her and very frustrating for me.

"I don't think there are any grounds for an appeal because they are the rules as they stand. Even if she could defer it or something like that, basically she will be denied her living for six or seven weeks. That can't be right for the crime."

Quotes from Michael Graham