Stephen Mahon at centre of another IHRB investigation after sampling incident

Trainer Stephen Mahon will be subject to another Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board (IHRB) investigation after an incident at Tipperary on Sunday, when he is alleged to have interfered in the post-race sampling of a horse he previously trained.

Stormey, an 11-year-old who was trained by Mahon until the trainer's recent four-year suspension relating to neglect issues arising from inspections at his yard, made his first start for fellow Galway trainer Pat Kelly when third in the 2m½f beginners' chase.

The stewards received a report from IHRB veterinary assistant Avena O'Keeffe surrounding Mahon's behaviour while a post-race urine sample was being taken from the three-time winner.

According to the stewards' report, which described Mahon as Kelly's authorised representative and travelling head lad, O'Keeffe stated Mahon "was interfering in the sampling process by insisting that she turn the tumbler used to collect the urine sample upside down to prove that there was nothing in it, prior to the sample being taken".

Stephen Mahon: involved in incident at Tipperary on SundayCredit: Patrick McCann (racingpost.com/photos)

She added Mahon was reluctant to leave the sampling unit and observe the sampling process on the screen situated outside the testing unit when asked to do so.

The veterinary assistant felt this interference caused her to miss the opportunity to take a urine sample from Stormey, also adding that Mahon was not wearing a face mask, as required by the Covid-19 protocols for racing.

Mahon said he had asked to see that the tumbler was empty prior to the sample being taken and also "found it strange that Stormey was selected for sampling being a non winner", the report stated.

The trainer said he left the sampling unit when asked and that he had his face mask on all day, although the stewards noted he "was not wearing his face mask during this inquiry" before ordering him to use one as part of the protocols.

Having considered the report and the evidence, the stewards referred the matter to IHRB chief executive Denis Egan for further investigation.

No date has been set yet for Mahon's appeal against his four-year ban.

Read more of the day's top stories:

Racecourses urge crowds to return on Monday as restrictions ease in England

Your key questions answered as full crowds are allowed back to tracks in England

Aidan O'Brien hails 'incredible' St Mark's Basilica as focus turns to York

Follow your favourites with our amazing Horse Tracker feature. Add up to 1,000 horses to your stable, filter them and keep up to date with automatic email alerts. Join Members' Club Ultimate now and never miss a winner again!