Trainer John 'Shark' Hanlon sees suspension reduced on appeal

Trainer John 'Shark' Hanlon has had his 10-month suspension over an incident in which he transported a dead horse in public view reduced to six months following an appeal, with the possibility of serving just three if he adheres to requirements set out by the IHRB.

Explaining the decision to reduce the penalty, the IHRB Appeals Body said the lack of respect demonstrated in the matter was not deliberate or wilful and allowed the reduction of the punishment.

They said: "It has to be borne in mind that the negligence of Mr Hanlon occurred in a single activity of relatively short duration.

"We are not to be taken as holding that negligence as distinct from a deliberate act might not attract a 10 or even 12-month withdrawal of licence in appropriate circumstances.

"Had there been continuing acts of negligence here, then the 10-month figure might well be justified.

"However, that was not the case and so we are of opinion that the headline figure of six months withdrawal is the correct one."

Hanlon yesterday sold 15 of his horses in anticipation of the ban but may now opt to maintain the rest of his stable including star name Hewick following the reduction of the punishment.

During the ban he must not be involved in training-related related activities, issue instructions to any jockey or other trainer, enter any weigh-room or parade ring or any other area of a racecourse restricted to licensees of the IHRB.

Should be oblige by those rules, he may resume training in early March with the ban beginning on 1 December, in time for the Cheltenham Festival.

Trainer Edward O'Grady attended the appeal and spoke in defence of Hanlon, describing the suspension as "draconian", as Hanlon was "an agricultural man going about agricultural business".