The Appeals Body (Division Two), Judge Tony Hunt (in the Chair), J.R. Craigie and Mrs. Valerie Cooper met at the Turf Club, Curragh, Co. Kildare on Monday, 25th February 2013 to consider an appeal from J.P. O’Brien, rider, against the severity of the ban imposed by the Stewards at Dundalk on 8th February 2013, when following the running of the Winter Racing at Dundalk Handicap (Division 1) he was suspended for three race days for using his whip with excessive force.

Evidence was heard from J.P. O’Brien and Paul Murtagh, Stipendiary Steward.  The Appeals Body also considered written evidence from Stephen McCarthy (Assistant to John J. Coleman, trainer).

Having considered the evidence the Appeals Body dismissed the appeal and confirmed that J.P. O’Brien was in breach of Regulation R10 3(f).  As a consequence, the suspension of three race days remains in place (March 1st, 8th and 15th).

The case was presented by Conal Boyce, Solicitor, Naas, Co. Kildare.