Turf out this vile behaviour

FOUR years ago, a Newcastle fan who punched a horse was sent to prison for a year.

Last week, a jockey who punched a horse was warned not to do it again.

Davy Russell, a Gold Cup winner, punched Kings Dolly on the back of her head before a race at Tramore a fortnight ago. It is a proper punch, have a look.

The Irish Turf Club merely cautioned Russell (below), who said he was “remorseful”.

Remorseful at being caught, presumably, because originally he said he had done nothing wrong and implied those who complained knew nothing about the sport and horses.

Those may not know the sport so well, but they know the sight of someone lamping a horse. They know it looks abhorrent. They also know the Irish Turf Club’s decision not to take any meaningful action must go down as one of the most disgraceful made by a governing body.

Which is why the Irish Turf Club’s appeals body is reviewing the decision. Good.