Both Paddy Brennan and Fergal O'Brien Have Been Dismissed from Their Positions as Stewards at Wincanton

Jockey Paddy Brennan, a seasoned rider, was handed a substantial 18-day ban, while trainer Fergal O'Brien, a respected figure in the industry, was slapped with a hefty £4,000 fine. These penalties were the result of Northern Air's second-place finish in the Golf Membership On Sale Now Maiden Hurdle at Wincanton.

The 5/1 possibility was making her first appearance over hurdles after achieving victory in a point-to-point race towards the end of last year and participating in one bumper race at Newbury last month since joining the O'Brien team.

Brennan's horse made a strong comeback after being held back at the start but ultimately finished three and a quarter lengths behind the heavily favoured winner in the one-mile-seven-furlong race.

The stewards launched an investigation into the performance, with Jockey Paddy Brennan providing his side of the story. He explained that he was instructed to deactivate Northern Air due to her previous race performance, where she had shown excessive enthusiasm and finished in a state of significant distress, having exhausted herself.

Brennan also mentioned that Northern Air had produced a respiratory sound, and he expressed his desire to ensure a more positive outcome. He emphasised the importance of maintaining control, being patient, and guiding her towards the finish line.

Both O'Brien and his representative verified the instructions. They expressed their contentment with the ride, as the stewards determined to penalise Brennan and impose a fine on O'Brien for "educating and preparing the horse on the racecourse." Additionally, Northern Air was issued a 40-day suspension from operating.