19 Feb 2015 Disciplinary Panel - Appeals against decisions on a Racecourse

The Disciplinary Panel of the British Horseracing Authority on Thursday 19 February 2015 considered an appeal lodged by Nick Scholfield, the rider of LIKE MINDED, placed second in the Andy Don Memorial Beginners’ Steeple Chase, against the decision of the Stewards at Fakenham on 13 February 2015 to find him in breach of Rule (D)45.3 of the Rules of Racing and to suspend him from riding for eight days, in respect of his failure to pull the gelding up after it had gone lame in the closing stages of the race.

The Panel considered evidence from Scholfield, who was legally represented, and viewed recordings of the race.

The Panel found that LIKE MINDED tired entering the home straight. Although on pulling up the gelding was found to be lame on his off fore, he landed on that leg over the last fence and continued to lead on it all the way to the line.

The Panel accepted Scholfield’s evidence that he had no indication that the gelding was lame until coming back to a trot, when he immediately dismounted.

The Panel upheld Scholfield’s appeal and quashed the eight day suspension.

 

Notes to editors:

1. The Panel for the appeal was: Lucinda Cavendish (Chair), Diana Powles, Jeremy Barlow.