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The Appeals Body, Mr Nick Wachman (Chair), Mr Anthony Byrne and Mr Michael Hickey convened at the offices of the Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board on Tuesday, 1 September to consider the appeal of Brian Hayes (Rider) against the decision of the Raceday Stewards at Killarney on 20 August 2026.
On the day, following the running of the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Novice Hurdle, the Raceday Stewards found Mr Hayes, rider of Diamond Du Berlais (FR), in breach of Rule 214 in that he had ridden carelessly and having considered his record in this regard (first offence), they suspended him for two racedays.
The grounds of appeal lodged by Mr Hayes were that the Raceday Stewards erred in their decision.
At the appeal hearing, evidence was heard from Mr Hayes. The Appeals Body also watched a recording of the race.
In his evidence, Mr Hayes accepted that he had moved left but insisted that at all times there was room and in his opinion, Local News, ridden by Josh Williamson jumping the spur was a consequence of Local News being inexperienced and running green rather than as a result of careless riding.
Having considered the evidence, the Appeals Body dismissed the appeal and confirmed the decision of the Raceday Stewards.
The case was presented by Mr Hayes. The IHRB was represented by Ms Michelle Byrne, Racing Regulation and Integrity and Mr Leighton Aspell, IHRB Stipendiary Steward.
Suspension dates: 4 and 7 September