A Disciplinary Panel, acting independently of the BHA, has today published its decision to find licensed trainer Jim Best in breach of two counts of Rule (C)45 and one count of Rule (A)30, along with its reasons.

The Panel imposed a penalty of a six-month suspension of licence on Mr Best. A stay of 7 days, effective from Tuesday 13 December, has been placed upon the penalty, pending any appeal.

In the meantime, the BHA will make no further comment on this case.

The Panel’s decision and written reasons can be found here.

Notes to Editors:

1. The Panel for the hearing was: Sir William Gage, William Norris QC and Nicholas Wachman

2. The charges against Jim Best were as follows:

Whether Jim Best committed a breach of Rule (C)45 of the Rules of Racing concerning the running and riding of ECHO BRAVA in the J H Builders Novices’ Hurdle at Plumpton on 14 December 2015, as a result of the rider intentionally failing to ensure that the horse was run on its merits.

Whether Jim Best committed a breach of Rule (C)45 of the Rules of Racing concerning the running and riding of MISSILE MAN (IRE) in the Totepool Betting On All UK Racing Maiden Hurdle Race at Towcester on 17 December 2015, as a result of the rider intentionally failing to ensure that the horse was run on its merits.

Is Jim Best in breach of Rule (A)30 of the Rules of Racing in connection with the running and riding of ECHO BRAVA at Plumpton on 14 December 2015 and/or MISSILE MAN at Towcester on 17 December 2015.