The Appeals Body (Division 2) Mr. Laurence McFerran (in the chair), Mr. Anthony Byrne and Mr. Noel McCaffrey convened via Zoom on Thursday 20^th October 2022 to consider the appeal of Sam Ewing (Rider) against the decision of the Stewards at Downpatrick on 7^th October 2022.

On the day, following the running of the C Russell Auto Sales Beginners Chase, the Stewards found Mr. Ewing, rider of Winding River, in breach of Regulation 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 four racedays.

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

At the Appeal Hearing, evidence was heard from Mr. Ewing and the committee also watched a recording of the race.

In his evidence, Mr. Ewing explained that his horse had landed awkwardly at the last fence which caused him to lose his reins momentarily. Mr. Ewing stated that it took him three attempts to gather his reins again and once he did, he changed his whip from the backhand to the forehand position and may have made accidental contact in doing so. He confirmed he was fully aware of the Regulation and felt he had ridden within the rules.

Having considered the evidence, the Appeals Body dismissed the appeal.

The case was presented by Mr. Michael Daly, IHRB Regulatory Legal Advisor. Mr. Ewing was represented by Mr. Kevin Power of Maurice Power Solicitors, Lord Edward Street, Kilmallock, County Limerick.

Suspension Date: 23^rd, 27^th, 29^th, 30^th October