The Appeals Body, Mr Michael Hickey (in the chair), Mr John Murphy and Mr Nick Wachman convened at the Offices of the Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board on Wednesday, 02 April 2025 to consider the appeal of D J O’Connor (Rider) against the decision of the Raceday Stewards at Dundalk on 21 March 2025. 

On the day, following the running of the Dundalk Stadium Winter Series Handicap, the Raceday Stewards found Mr O’Connor, rider of Sporting Hero, 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 the appeal lodged by Mr O’Connor were that the Raceday Stewards erred in their decision on the day. 

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

In his evidence Mr O’Connor stated that he felt he maintained his racing line throughout. Mr O’Connor confirmed that he had heard shouting from his outside and looked behind him but always felt that he kept his racing line and didn’t feel he had caused any interference.  

Having considered the evidence, the Appeals Body allowed the appeal. 

The case was presented by Mr O’Connor, accompanied by Mr Niall McCullagh, Jockey Coach. The IHRB was represented by Ms Christine Traynor BL, IHRB Head of Racing Regulation and Integrity.