The Appeals Body (Division One), Patrick Reidy (in the Chair), Peter Reynolds and N.B. Wachman met at the Turf Club, The Curragh, Co. Kildare, on Friday 25th April, 2014, to consider an appeal from Ian McCarthy, rider, against the severity of the penalty imposed by the Stewards at Tramore on 13th April 2014.  On that date the Stewards found the rider to be in breach of Rules 208(i)(a) and (ii)(f) in that he had disobeyed the starter’s instructions by coming forward without being instructed to do so prior to the running of  the Martinstown Opportunity Handicap Steeplechase.  As a result he was suspended for four race days.

Evidence was heard from Ian McCarthy, who accepted he was in breach of the rules.  He said he could not hear the starter’s instructions due to the noise levels.  He said he followed the riders in front when they took off.

The Appeals Body considered a number of submissions made by Andrew Coonan, solicitor acting on behalf of Ian McCarthy, on the severity of the penalty imposed.  Mr. Coonan also made reference to Ian McCarthy’s disciplinary record.

Having considered the evidence, the Appeals Body allowed the appeal and reduced the suspension to 3 race days in view of the rider’s record and the way he met the case.  Suspension dates are 27th, 29th April & 5th May 2014.

The case was presented by Paul Murtagh, Turf Club Stipendiary Steward.  Ian McCarthy was represented by Andrew Coonan, Coonan Cawley Solicitors, Naas, Co. Kildare.