The Appeals Body (Division Two), Martin P. O’Donnell (in the Chair), Ms. Mary Cosgrave and J. R. Craigie met in the Stewards Room, Naas Racecourse, Co. Kildare, on Sunday 9th March, 2014, to consider an appeal from G.J. Phillips, rider, against the decision of the Stewards at Dundalk on 21st February, 2014.  On that date the Stewards found the rider to be in breach of Rule 214 as he had ridden carelessly by failing to take reasonable steps to avoid interference in the Ladbrokes Handicap.  As a result he was suspended for four race days.

The rider’s grounds of appeal were that, while accepting he was guilty of careless riding, the four day penalty imposed was excessive given his exemplary record.

Evidence was heard from G.J. Phillips, rider and from Tracey Collins, trainer of Captains Dilemma. The Appeals Body also considered the transcript of the evidence given at the original hearing and viewed a recording of the race.

In his evidence G.J. Phillips stated that the horse was difficult to ride and began to hang towards the inner rail half way up the home straight and said that he should have been more aware of his surroundings when his mount began to drift. He said that he accepted the Stewards decision of careless riding.

In her evidence Tracey Collins confirmed that the horse was a complex individual measuring in excess of 17 hands, while the animal had also sustained leg injuries in the past.

Having considered the evidence, the Appeals Body confirmed the finding of careless riding, but reduced the penalty imposed from four days to two days (March 14th and 21st).

The case was presented by Shay Quinn, Turf Club Official.