The Referrals Committee, Mr Laurance McFerran (Chairman), Dr Paddy Moloney and Ms Mary Cosgrave convened in the Stewards Room at The Curragh Racecourse on Thursday, 17 October to consider a referral from a Senior Racing Official under Rule 27(vii) to review the Student Raceday on October 28th INH Flat Race at Galway on 8 October 2024. 

On review, it appeared that Lelia Byrne, rider of Matter of Opinion may have been in breach of Regulation 10, regarding her use of the whip during the running of the race. The matter was subsequently referred to the Referrals Committee under Rule 27(vii). 

At the Referral Hearing, evidence was heard from Ms Byrne. The Referrals Committee also watched a recording of the race.

In her evidence, Ms Byrne accepted that was in breach of Regulation 10.3(g) and Regulation 10.3(i) and she apologised for her actions.

Having considered the evidence, the Referrals Committee found Ms Byrne in breach of Regulation 10.3(g) (excessive frequency) and Regulation 10.3(i) (time to respond) and having considered her clean record in this regard, they suspended her for five racedays.

The case was presented by Ms Shona Murphy, IHRB. Ms Byrne represented herself at the hearing.

Suspension Dates: 31 October 1, 2, 7, 10 November 2024.