The Appeals Body (Division 2) Mr. N.B Wachman (in the chair), Mr. M.C. Hickey and Mr. John Martin-Smith convened at The Curragh Racecourse on 6^th November 2020 to consider the Appeal of L.T. McAteer (Rider) against the severity of the sanction imposed by the Stewards at Dundalk on 23^rd October 2020.

On the day, following the running of the Follow On Instagram @dundalk_stadium Maiden, the Stewards suspended Mr. McAteer for eight racedays having found him in breach of Regulation 10.3(h), in that he had used him whip with his arm above shoulder height.

Evidence was heard from Mr. McAteer and the Appeals Body also watched a recording of the race.

In his evidence, Mr. McAteer stated that he accepted the breach of Regulation 10.3(h) but confirmed he was appealing the severity of the suspension as this was his first breach of this section of Regulation 10.3. Mr McAteer stated that he was aware of his record with regard to Regulation 10.3 but that he had taken steps to address his use of the whip. He confirmed to the Appeals Body that his grounds for this appeal was due to this being his first breach under this section of the Regulation but accepted the clarification from the Appeals Body that all sanctions under Regulation 10.3 were cumulative for any breach of that Regulation. 

Having considered the evidence, the Appeals Body could not find fault with the decision of the Stewards on the day and they dismissed the appeal and confirmed the suspension of eight racedays. Furthermore, they ordered that the deposit be forfeited.

The case was presented by Mr. Liam Walsh, Stipendiary Steward.  

Suspension Dates: 9^th, 11^th, 13^th, 16^th, 18^th 20^th, 23^rd and 25^th November