Shark Hanlon and Simon Munir speak out as debate continues on plan to exclude top jumps trainers in Ireland from some races

Shark Hanlon backs controversial plan to hold restricted races - but Simon Munir says initiative 'penalises' owners

Shark Hanlon: always willing to give his horses a go in the deep end

Shark Hanlon believes HRI's initiative is a positive stepCredit: ITV

Trainer Shark Hanlon said yesterday that Horse Racing Ireland’s initiative to exclude top jumps trainers in Ireland from competing in 60 races next year is "a positive step".

However, the proposal continues to prove controversial and high-profile owner Simon Munir said that the scheme punishes success and contravenes what should be a meritocratic model within the industry.

The planned change to the race programme has sparked much debate, which is set to continue after it was revealed the affected trainers are considering legal action against Irish racing's governing body.

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Conor FennellyReporter and emerging talent award winner

Published on 15 August 2024inIreland

Last updated 20:11, 15 August 2024

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