The Appeals Body (Division Two), Judge Tony Hunt (in the Chair), Dr. Colm O’Flaherty and Paul Ronan met at the Turf Club on 22nd October 2012 to consider an application from Leigh Roche, rider Grey Danube, to withdraw the appeal lodged on his behalf, against the decision of the Stewards at Dundalk on 27th September 2012 when, following the running of the Dundalk Stadium Lights Up Friday 28th September Handicap, he was suspended for two race days for careless riding.

Andrew Coonan (on behalf of Leigh Roche) said his client now wished to withdraw the appeal, having taken advice both from himself and also from his Master, D.K. Weld.  Denis Egan, Chief Executive of the Turf Club outlined the Turf Club’s unhappiness at the way the matter had been prolonged by Leigh Roche.  He said as a result of Mr. Roche’s actions the Turf Club incurred considerable costs in preparing for the case.

Having considered both submissions, the Appeals Body allowed the withdrawal of the appeal and ordered that Leigh Roche’s deposit be forfeited to cover the Turf Club’s costs.  Judge Tony Hunt said that appellants in future should not assume that the Appeals Body will allow automatic withdrawal of an appeal if it is not a timely withdrawal.  In relation to the suspension days, the Appeals Body ordered that the suspension should be served on Friday 26th & Saturday 27th October 2012.

The case was presented by Conal Boyce, Wilkinson & Price Solicitors, Naas, Co. Kildare.  Leigh Roche was represented by Andrew Coonan, Coonan Cawley Solicitors, Naas, Co. Kildare.