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The Appeals Body, Mr Justice Tony Hunt (Chair), Mr Raymond J McSharry and Mr Victor Connolly convened at the offices of the Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board on Monday, 22 December to consider the appeal of Sam Ewing (Rider) against the decision of the Raceday Stewards in Navan on 14 December 2025.
On the day, following the running of the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Handicap Hurdle, the Raceday Stewards found Mr Ewing in breach of Rule 214 in that he had ridden carelessly. Having considered his record in this regard (first offence) the Raceday Stewards suspended Mr Ewing for two racedays.
At the appeal hearing, evidence was heard from Mr Ewing. The panel also watched a recording of the race.
In his evidence, Mr Ewing described how he felt his mount was travelling better than the other horses and the incident occurred when he was a length clear. Mr Ewing explained that his horse rolled around under pressure, however, he felt that he had good control of his mount through his right rein, and he did not feel he had caused any interference.
Having considered the evidence, the Appeals Body upheld the decision of the Raceday Stewards and suspended Mr Ewing for two racedays.
The appeal was presented by Mr Ewing. The IHRB was represented by Ms Christine Traynor BL, IHRB Head of Racing Regulation and Integrity and Mr Leighton Aspell, IHRB Stipendiary Steward.
Suspension Dates: 31 December 2025 and 1 January 2026.