The Referrals Committee, Mr Justice Tony Hunt (Chairman), Dr Paddy Molony and Mr Laurence McFerran convened via Zoom on Tuesday, 23 July 2024 to consider an application from Gearoid Brouder (Rider) to review the suspension imposed on him at an IHRB Referral Hearing on 24 July 2023.

At that hearing, the Referrals Committee found Mr Brouder in breach of Rule 277(i) in that a sample of urine taken from him during in-competition testing at Gowran Park on 10 May 2023 was found to contain benzoylecgonine. They imposed a penalty of four years suspension of his licence with a condition that the committee would consider an application to suspend the penalty from 28 July 2024 should Mr Brouder comply with strict terms and conditions.

At the Referral Hearing to consider his application, evidence was heard from Mr Brouder and Dr Jennifer Pugh, IHRB Chief Medical Officer.

In his evidence, Mr Brouder explained that it had been a difficult time for him last year and since receiving support from Dr Pugh and Mr Pat Brennan, a renowned addiction counsellor, he has a different mindset and has chosen a healthier lifestyle.

In her evidence, Dr Pugh noted Mr Brouder’s positive engagement with Mr Brennan. Dr Pugh also explained that since the previous hearing, Mr Brouder has accepted his responsibilities, and transformed his behaviour and engagement in comparison with prior to the suspension.

Having considered the evidence, the Referrals Committee permitted Mr Brouder to apply for his licence and confirmed they would advise the Licensing Committee that they had no objection to the granting of a new licence from 28 July 2024. The Referrals Committee added that if the licence was granted by the Licensing Committee that the new licence will be subject to a suspended penalty of three years for a period of three years. The suspension of the balance is on the conditions that Mr Brouder continues his engagement with Dr Pugh and comply to any terms and conditions that she may apply.

The case was presented by Ms Christine Traynor, IHRB Head of Racing Regulation and Integrity.