Irish Racing was yesterday hit with a doping controversy of its own when it was confirmed that the John Joe Walsh-rained Tobar Na Carraige was doped at Tralee on June 1st.

Tobar Na Carraige, the fifth favourite, was pulled up in the Grace Handicap Hurdle, after which Walsh reported that he was concerned with the run. Analysis yesterday confirmed that Acepromazine (ACP) had been given to the horse.

Turf Club chief executive Cahir O'Sullivan said: "This sort of occurrence is infrequent but when it happens it's especially disturbing. We don't know yet how it happened or who is involved but we will be making all the necessary inquiries."

Several jockeys, including Jamie Osborne, were arrested and questioned in connection with doping of horses in Britain last winter.

Walsh described Tobar Na Carraige's condition immediately after the Tralee race as having "all the hallmarks of being hugely sedated".

"He was as drunk as a lord afterwards," he said.

Gardai are investigating the incident.