The Appeals Body, Mr. Laurence McFerran (Chairman), Dr. Paddy Molony and Mr. Anthony Byrne convened at the Offices of the IHRB on Monday 24th July 2023 to consider the appeal of Hugh Horgan, Rider of Lady Fox, against the decision of the Stewards at Navan on the 15th July 2023.
Following the running of the Navan Adventure Centre Maiden, the Raceday Stewards found Mr. Horgan, rider of Lady Fox, in breach of Rule 214 in that he had ridden carelessly and having considered his record in this regard they suspended him for one raceday.
The appeal lodged by Mr. Horgan was that the Raceday Stewards erred in their decision.
At the Appeal Hearing, evidence was heard from Mr. Horgan. The Appeals Body also watched a recording of the race.
In his evidence, Mr. Horgan stated that it was a first run for Lady Fox and that through greenness she followed Freedom Falls towards the inside rail. Mr. Horgan stated that there was a crosswind on the day which also wasn’t helpful to the situation, but he didn’t feel that he had caused any interference. Mr. Horgan confirmed that he didn’t feel he ever had to take any action to change her course and that Freedom Falls had drifted more so than his mount.
Having considered the evidence, the Appeals Body dismissed the appeal and confirmed the suspension imposed on the day.
Mr. Horgan was accompanied by Mr. Brendan Powell at the appeal hearing. The IHRB was represented by Mr. Michael Daly, IHRB Regulatory Legal Advisor.
Suspension Date: 29th July