James Hannon, one of Ireland's leading amateur jockeys, has been handed a 21-day suspension by the country's referrals committee after a physical altercation with another rider at a point-to-point race last month. However, the ban will not prevent him from riding at the Cheltenham Festival.
The suspension, which begins on March 11, only applies to days with point-to-point fixtures. This means Hannon can still take the mount on Churchstonewarrior in the National Hunt Chase on March 14, the opening day of the Festival.
The incident occurred at Kildorrery, where Hannon's mount Dontrushslowtouch was beaten by Dromleigh, ridden by Mikey O'Connor. Hannon told the hearing he became angry after O'Connor's horse crossed him approaching the last fence, almost causing his mount to fall. He admitted exchanging words and grabbing O'Connor's shoulder, describing the incident as 'regrettable'.
O'Connor expressed surprise at Hannon's actions, noting they were both senior riders and good friends for many years. He felt he had jumped the last fence two to three lengths ahead of Hannon's horse. Hannon was found guilty of acting in a manner prejudicial to the integrity of horseracing and will be banned from all point-to-point meetings until May 14.
