The Appeals Body, Mr Nick Wachman (Chairman), Mr Anthony Byrne and Mr Peter Reynolds convened at the Offices of the Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board on Tuesday, 16 July to consider the appeal of Kevin Sexton (Rider) against the decision of the Raceday Stewards at Sligo on Sunday, 7 July 2024.

Following the running of the Family Day at Sligo Races Maiden Hurdle, the Raceday Stewards found Mr Sexton, rider of Serotonin in breach of Rule 10.3(g) in that he had used his whip with excessive frequency and having considered his record in this regard they suspended him for two racedays.

The grounds of appeal lodged by Mr Sexton was that the Raceday Stewards on the day erred in their decision.

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

In his evidence, Mr Sexton explained that at least one strike did not connect with his mount as he was in close proximity Bobbysingindablues ridden by Danny Gilligan. Mr Sexton stated that there was not enough room for him to connect with the horse. Mr Sexton stated that he has a clean record in this regard as he cognisant of the rules.

Having considered the evidence and reviewed all angles of the recording available to them, the Appeals Body allowed the appeal.

The Appeal was presented by Mr Sexton. The IHRB was represented by Mr Liam Walsh, IHRB Senior Stipendiary Steward and Ms Christine Traynor IHRB Head of Racing Regulation and Integrity.