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The Appeals Body, Mr Michael Hickey (Chairman), Mr Noel McCaffrey and Mr Marcus Magnier convened at the offices of the Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board on Tuesday, 29 September 2026 to consider the appeal of Tom O’Connor (Rider) against the decision of the Raceday Stewards at Listowel on 20 September 2026.
On the day, following the running of the Kinisla Bloom Irish EBF Mares Handicap Hurdle, the Raceday Stewards found Mr O’Connor, rider of Regards To Rose, in breach of Rule 214, in that he had ridden carelessly, and having considered his record in this regard (second offence) they suspended Mr O’Connor for four racedays.
The grounds of appeal lodged by Mr O’Connor were that the Raceday Stewards erred in their decision.
At the appeal hearing evidence was heard from Mr O’Connor. The panel also watched a recording of the race.
In his evidence, Mr O’Connor described how he was upsides How’s Ellie, ridden by Danny Mullins and Radiator Springs, ridden by Darragh O’Keeffe, was on his outside as they approached the bend. Mr O’Connor stated that he maintained his racing line and. in his opinion, there was space for all three horses. Mr O’Connor explained that he was committed to the gap between Mr Mullins and Mr O’Keeffe when he received contact from Radiator Springs and he felt the incident was a result of this contact, which in turn led to him making contact with How’s Ellie, who was also retreating at the time.
Having considered the evidence, the Appeals Body dismissed the appeal and confirmed the sanction imposed by the Raceday Stewards on the day.
The appeal was presented by Mr Patrick Kennedy, Patrick J O’Meara & Co Solicitors on behalf of Mr O’Connor. The IHRB was represented by Ms Hannah Smullen BL, instructed by Ms Christine Traynor, IHRB Head of Racing Regulation and Integrity.
Suspension Dates: 4, 5, 6 and 8 October