The Appeals Body, Dr Paddy Molony (Chairman), Mr Jack Rearden and Mr Anthony Byrne convened at the Offices of the Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board on Friday, 20 December 2024 to consider the appeal of Sam Ewing (Rider) against the decision of the Raceday Stewards at Navan, 15 December 2024.

On the day, following the running of the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Handicap Hurdle, the Raceday Stewards found Mr Ewing, rider of Boston Beach, in breach of Regulation 10.3(h) in that he had used his whip with his arm above shoulder height and the Raceday Stewards suspended him for two racedays.   

The grounds of the appeal lodged by Mr Ewing were that the Raceday Stewards erred in their decision.

At the appeal hearing, evidence was heard from Mr Ewing and the Appeals Body also watched a recording of the race.

In his evidence Mr Ewing stated that his mount had a tendency to run lazily but he had only used his whip on four occasions as his horse was not going to finish any closer. Mr Ewing said that he didn't feel he had used his whip with his arm above shoulder height and that while it looked as though he might have in one camera angle, Mr Ewing suggested this was just down to the camera angle and at all times he felt he had ridden in accordance with the rules.

Having considered the evidence, the Appeals Body dismissed the appeal, confirming the breach of Regulation 10.3(h) and having considered submissions in mitigation reduced the sanction imposed to one Raceday and returned 50 per cent of Mr Ewing's deposit. 

The Appeal was presented by Liam Walsh, IHRB Senior Stipendiary Steward. 

Suspension Date: 31 December 2024