Davids Lad Appeal Rejected After over three hours of deliberation yesterday evening, the Appeals & Referrals Committee rejected Davids Lad's appeal against a 42-day ban.The Committee upheld the decision of the Acting Stewards at Naas and confirmed the penalties of a six week ban for the horse, seven-racedays for jockey Timmy Murphy, and E1,000 fine for trainer Tony Martin. The committee turned down pleas for leniency of the sentences by connections.The Naas Stewards were of the opinion that the racecourse was used as a training ground, and the jockey had made insufficient effort.Evidence was heard at the Curragh racecourse from Ruby Walsh, who rode the horse four times in the past, Peter McGouran, Naas Clerk of the Course, Val O'Connell, Stewards Secretary Joan Taylor, Turf Club vet, Noel O'Brien, Senior NH Handicapper, Timmy Murphy, Tony Martin, Miss Katie Magnier and Sammy Wilson, employees of Martin, Des Leadon, Irish Equine Centre, and Eddie Moran representing Eddie Joe Syndicate, owners of Davids Lad.Six different videos were shown and then there were statements by Brian Price, solicitor for the Naas Stewards, and from Andrew Coonan and Brian Rennick representing the trainer, rider and owners.Davids Lad ban ends on April 15, causing him to miss the Cheltenham Festival and the Aintree Grand National, but he will be back in time for the Powers Irish Grand National at Fairyhouse on April 21.Davids Lad had been second favourite for the Aintree National prior to the Naas run, having appeared to hold every chance in last year`s big race when falling four out.
