The Appeals Body, Mr. Anthony Byrne (Chairman), Mr. John Murphy and Mr. John McGuire convened at the Offices of the Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board on Monday, 27th November 2023 to consider the appeal of Billy Lee (Rider) against the decision of the Raceday Stewards at Dundalk on Friday, 17th November 2023.

Following the running of the Bar One Racing Handicap, the Raceday Stewards found Mr. Lee, rider of Limestone Red, in breach of Rule 214 in that he had ridden carelessly and having considered his record in this regard they suspended him for eight racedays.

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

At the Appeal Hearing evidence was heard from Mr. Lee and the Appeals Body also watched a recording of the race.

Mr. Lee explained that it was a wet and windy night, and his mount did roll to the right near the horse gate. However, he added that this was also where this race had started on the previous circuit and that he didn't feel the movement was significant. Mr. Lee also explained that this was his mount's first time to be in front in a race and he was lonely without the company of another horse and that the replays may have exaggerated how significant the contact was. 

Having considered the evidence, the Appeals Body dismissed the appeal and confirmed the decision of the Raceday Stewards.

The case was presented by Mr. Kevin Power of Maurice Power Solicitors, Kilmallock, Co. Limerick on behalf of Mr. Lee. The IHRB was represented by Ms. Clíodhna Guy, Head of Licensing, Legal and Compliance. 

Suspension Dates: 1^st, 6^th, 8^th, 13^th, 15^th, 20^th, 22^nd December 2023 & 19^th January 2024.