Result of an appeal (Andrew Thornton) heard by the Disciplinary Panel on Thursday 30 October 2014
The Disciplinary Panel of the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) on Thursday 30 October considered an appeal lodged by Andrew Thornton, the rider of the winner, HEAD SPIN (IRE), in the 32RedPoker.com Handicap Steeple Chase on 23 October 2014, against the decision of the Stewards at Southwell to find him in breach of Schedule (B)6 Part 2 of the Rules of Racing in that he had used his whip without allowing his horse time to respond and to suspend him from riding for three days.
The Panel considered evidence from Thornton and also viewed recordings of the race.
The Panel found that after the final fence Thornton had used his whip three times without allowing his horse time to respond.
The Panel dismissed the appeal and confirmed the three day suspension on Thursday 6, Friday 7 and Saturday 8 November 2014 inclusive. It ordered that the deposit be returned.
Notes to editors:
1. The Panel for the appeal was: William Barlow (Chair), Didi Powles, Roger Bellamy.
