The Appeals Body (Division 2) Mr. M.C. Hickey (in the chair), Mr. Anthony Byrne and Mr. Jack Rearden convened at Naas Racecourse on Monday 2nd August 2021 to consider the appeal of Ben Martin Coen (Rider) against the decision of the Stewards at Cork on 23rd July 2021.
On the day, following the running of the Kanturk Handicap, the Stewards found Mr. Coen, rider of Tenroundqueen, in breach of Rule 214 in that he had ridden carelessly and having considered his record suspended him for seven racedays.
The grounds of appeal lodged by Mr. Coen was against the severity of the penalty imposed.
At the Appeal Hearing, evidence was heard from Mr. Coen. The committee also watched a recording of the race.
In his evidence, Mr. Coen accepted the incident in Cork should not have happened but stated that his mount drifted out just at the wrong time as she began to get tired. He stated that he should have been more aware of Mr. Hayes but said that as a result of Mr. Hayes having to check there was a knock on effect on other riders. Mr. Coen said that he was not contending the breach of rule but said it was accidental in nature and he also acknowledged that his record is something he is conscious of and as a result of recent suspensions has been working closely with former jockey Fran Berry to avoid any more breaches of the rule. This is in addition to reviewing each race with his employer, Mr. Johnny Murtagh who he is now stable jockey for in his first season as a professional.
Having considered the evidence, the Appeals Body accepted that there were some mitigating factors but felt the Stewards on the day made the correct decision with the penalty that they imposed and therefore dismissed the appeal.
The case was presented by Mr. Liam Walsh, Stipendiary Steward. Mr. Coen was represented by Mr. Patrick Kennedy of Patrick J. O’Meara & Co. Solicitors, Liberty Square, Thurles, County Tipperary.
Date of Suspension: 6th, 7th, 8th, 11th, 12th, 13th 14th August