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The Appeals Body, Dr Paddy Molony (Chairman), Mr Noel McCaffrey and Mr Anthony Byrne convened at the offices of the Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board on Tuesday, 20 October 2026 to consider the appeal of Mr Patrick Mullins (Rider) against the decision of the Raceday Stewards at Punchestown on 14 October 2026.
On the day, following the running of the Matchbook €50,000 Graduation Series Flat Race, the Raceday Stewards found Mr Mullins, rider of Sharbel in breach of Rule 214 in that he had ridden carelessly and having considered his record in this regard (second offence), the Raceday Stewards suspended him for four racedays.
The grounds of appeal lodged by Mr Mullins were that he felt he did not ride carelessly as he made every effort to straighten his mount who leaned right as a result of a late finisher appearing on his outside.
At the appeal hearing, evidence was heard from Mr Mullins. The Appeals Body also watched a recording of the race.
In his evidence, Mr Mullins described how he was involved in a tight finish when he felt his mount lean right and that he felt he took all reasonable steps to avoid any interference.
Having considered the evidence, the Appeals Body dismissed the appeal and confirmed the decision of the Raceday Stewards.
The case was presented by Mr Mullins. The IHRB was represented by Mr Liam Walsh, IHRB Senior Stipendiary Steward and Ms Christine Traynor BL, IHRB Head of Racing Regulation and Integrity.
Suspension Dates: 5, 7, 8 and 9 November