The Appeals Body (Division Two), N.B. Wachman (in the Chair), Martin O’Donnell and Peter N. Reynolds met at Leopardstown Racecourse, Foxrock, Dublin 18 on 8th September 2012 to consider an appeal from Ronan Whelan, rider, against the severity of the ban imposed by the Stewards at Dundalk on 27th August 2012, when following the running of the This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.">This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Maiden he was suspended for one race day for careless riding.

Evidence was heard from Dave Keena (Ronan Whelan’s agent) and Ronan Whelan.  Film of the race was also reviewed.

In his evidence, Dave Keena outlined how the incident occurred and said that the manoeuvre which happened was not Ronan Whelan’s fault but was due to his horse suddenly drifting left.

In his evidence, Ronan Whelan said that he tried to straighten his horse before the interference was caused.  He said he knew his horse had a propensity to hang left but that he didn’t think she would hang as badly as she did when he loosened the reins.  He also told the Committee that he had never ridden the horse before the race at Dundalk.  

Having considered the evidence the Appeals Body dismissed the appeal and ordered that the original penalty of one race day (10th September 2012) remain in place.  They also ordered that the appeal deposit by forfeited.

The case was presented by Shay Quinn, Stipendiary Steward.  Ronan Whelan was represented by Dave Keena, Authorised Riders Agent.