News Licensing 21st Sep 2017

Brendan Kelly QC represented Suzie Best in her application for a Horse Training Licence

Suzie Best’s application for a licence, following her husband’s  suspension as a Trainer, was eventually granted last week. Jim Best, her husband, has completed his period of suspension but had indicated an intention to withdraw from training. His yard was renowned and had enjoyed in excess of 200 winners prior to his suspension. Jim Best was given a six-month suspension by the BHA disciplinary panel last December after it ruled Best had instructed conditional jockey Paul John to ride Echo Brava and Missile Man other than on their merits and that they were “stopping rides”.

The application permits Mrs Best to train and run her own business from the family stables, Grandstand Stables in Lewes, formerly run by her husband, who has always insisted his innocence but decided not to appeal the verdict after the rehearing.

The application was opposed by The BHA. Despite their varied objections Mrs Best was granted a Licence permitting her to train forthwith.


Brendan Kelly was instructed by George Primarolo at Harrowells based in York.


The result was publicised in the national press, please see the links below for further information:

Sky Sports | The Guardian | The Daily Mail


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