Business as usual for Birchley at Doomben
It was business as usual at Doomben for trainer Liam Birchley who had a year’s disqualification from the Aquanita case lifted on Friday.
Birchley was disqualified as part of a series in inquiries two years ago by Victorian stewards into the alleged use of “top-ups” on horses over a seven-year period.
Much of the case centred on text messages sent between various people associated with Aquanita.
Birchley had been training on a stay of proceedings in Victoria and Queensland but was barred in NSW pending the result of his appeal.
The NSW ban cost him wins in two Ramornie Handicaps and a Liverpool City Cup.
Birchley appealed his disqualification to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal.
His appeal was upheld while three other appeals by trainers were dismissed.
Birchley saddled his three runners at Doomben.
“I am obviously pleased with the result but I am sorry I am not in a position to say anything else at this time,” Birchley said.
He had indicated earlier this month he would step away from training to concentrate on other interests.