THE appointment of Frank Clarke to the role of Chief Justice this week has been welcomed by his many friends in the racing world.

Clarke (65) has been a Supreme Court judge since 2012. He lives close to Leopardstown and has been chairman of his local racecourse and still serves as an acting steward both there and at Kilbeggan.

He joined the Turf Club in 1999 and the INHS Committee in 2001. He has been a Steward of the Turf Club and has also been a member of the Appeals Body. Among the high-profile hearings he chaired was the case involving the reinstatement of Duntle as winner of the 2012 Matron Stakes.

Senior Steward Meta Osborne said: “Frank is a unique individual - one of the finest legal brains in the country, who also has a deep understanding and passion for racing. He was a key figure in the re-drafting of Rule 212 and has served as chairman of Stewards at Leopardstown and the Curragh.

“The Stewards and members of the Turf Club are delighted with his elevation to the position of Chief Justice. I haven’t spoken to him yet but sincerely hope that the country’s gain won’t be our loss and that he will continue to play an active role with the Club.”

Denis Egan, the Turf Club CEO, added: “I am delighted for Frank. He is a real gentleman and a pleasure to work with.

“He has been a huge help to the Turf Club and INHS Committee down through the years both as a steward and at committee level, particularly in relation to the rules. I would like to send our sincerest best wishes to him.”

Leopardstown CEO Pat Keogh said: “Frank was chairman here before my time but I know that my predecessors Matt O’Dwyer and Tom Burke greatly benefitted from his support and experience.

He is a very capable man who sees the wider picture. He has this lovely demeanour which allows hm to mix business with pleasure on the racecourse. Everyone here enjoyed working with him.”

Clarke has owned a number of winners trained by Arthur Moore, who said: “Well Ridden, Notable D’Estruval and Bon Temps Rouler were among the best Frank owned. I congratulate him on his appointment and wish him well in the role.”

Brian Kavanagh, HRI’s chief executive, added: “It’s richly deserved for Frank. I worked alongside him at Leopardstown, the Turf Club and he was on the HRI board for a time.

“He is a great racing enthusiast, follower of the form, and a sound man.”