The Appeals Body (Division Two), Judge Tony Hunt (in the chair), John Moloney and Paul Ronan met at the Turf Club, The Curragh, Co. Kildare on Thursday, 28th August 2014 to consider the appeal of Joseph O’Brien, Rider against the decision of the Stewards at Dundalk on 17th August 2014.  The Stewards held an enquiry following the running of the Irish Stallion Farms European Breeders Fund Maiden and he was found in breach of Regulation 10 4 for failing to give his mount sufficient time to respond. As a result he was suspended for two race days.

The grounds of appeal lodged were that he did not use his whip with excessive frequency and the Stewards on the day erred in their decision to convict him of this offence.

Evidence was heard from Joseph O’Brien.  Film of the incident was also shown.

In his evidence Joseph O’Brien said that the horse is difficult and was keen throughout the race. Inside the final furlong he gave the horse 3 quick flicks, each time showing him the whip, to keep his attention.  He was trying to keep the horse concentrating on his job and at the same time keeping him running straight as the winner came alongside him. These were the only 3 times he had used the whip during the race.

Having considered the evidence and taking into account the overall use of the whip during the race, the Appeals Body allowed the appeal.

The case was presented by Conal Boyce, Solicitor, Naas, Co. Kildare. Joseph O’Brien was represented by Andrew Coonan, Coonan Cawley, Solicitors, Naas, Co. Kildare.