The Appeals Body, Mr Laurence McFerran (Chairman), Mr Raymond J. McSharry and Mr Noel McCaffrey convened at the Offices of the Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board on Tuesday, 28  January to consider the appeal of Danny Gilligan (Rider) against the decision of the Raceday Stewards at Fairyhouse on 16 January 2025.

On the day, following the running of the Easter Festival Rated Novice Hurdle, the Raceday Stewards found Mr Gilligan, rider of Find A Fortune, in breach of Rule 214 in that he had ridden carelessly and having considered his record in this regard (first offence), the Raceday Stewards suspended him for two racedays.   

The grounds of appeal lodged by Mr Gilligan were that the Raceday Stewards on the day erred in their decision and failed to take all factors into consideration.

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

In his evidence, Mr Gilligan stated that he maintained his racing line at all times as the horses were rounding the bend. Mr Gilligan accepted that interference had occurred but, in his opinion, felt that the interference was caused by a horse on his inside,

Having considered the evidence, the Appeals Body dismissed the appeal, upholding the decision of the Raceday Stewards.

The appeal was presented by Mr Kevin Power, Maurice Power Solicitors, Kilmallock, Co Limerick, on behalf of Mr Gilligan. The IHRB was represented by Ms Christine Traynor, IHRB Head of Racing Regulation and Integrity.

Suspension dates: 3, 5 February