The Appeals Body (Division Two), N.B. Wachman (in the Chair), Sean Barry and John Moloney met at the Turf Club, The Curragh, Co. Kildare on Monday 1st December 2014 to consider an appeal from Bryan Cooper, rider, against the severity of  the penalty imposed by the Stewards at Navan on 23rd November 2014.  On that date the Stewards found the rider to be in breach of Rule 214, as they deemed that he had ridden improperly on Milsean between the second last and last hurdles in the I.N.H. Irish Stallion Owners European Breeders Fund Maiden Hurdle.  As a result he was suspended for four race days.

Evidence was heard from Bryan Cooper.  The Appeals Body also considered a number of submissions from Frank Ward, on behalf of Bryan Cooper.  Hugh Hynes, stewards' secretary, gave evidence on Bryan Cooper's disciplinary record and the penalty guidelines. Film of the race was also viewed.

In his evidence Bryan Cooper explained how he held his racing line between the last two hurdles.  He said that the doll alignment may have contributed to what occurred.  He said that Paul Carberry (rider that was interfered with) had never stopped riding and was never endangered by what occurred.

Having considered the evidence the Appeals Body dismissed the appeal and ordered that the original penalty of four race days stand (December 7th, 13th, 14th and 20th).  They also ordered that his appeal deposit be forfeited.

The case was presented by Conal Boyce, Solicitor, Naas, Co. Kildare.  Bryan Cooper was represented by Frank Ward, Frank Ward & Co. Solicitors, Dublin 7.