Shamed jockey issues apology after being handed six-month drug ban

19 February 2024 , 18:57

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Tommy Dowson has been banned for six months (Image: PA)

Jockey Tommy Dowson has vowed to turn his life around after being handed a six-month drugs ban.

A disciplinary case heard how the 28-year-old took cocaine four times last year – and was caught by racing’s regular testing process. A probe was launched after Dowson’s positive sample for a metabolite of the Class A drug, which has prevented him from competing since October.

The rider of 148 winners will be suspended until April 4, with the punishment backdated, after British Horseracing Authority panel members ruled on the breach of Rule (K)49. Dowson’s solicitor Rory Mac Neice said his client, who rode in the 2022 Grand National, will no longer put himself in situations where drugs may be present – and is focused on his return.

“This was a bad error of judgement on his part,” he added. “It has left him with a stark choice – his career or the other path. Mr Dowson wants you to know that he has chosen his career.

“He apologises to the BHA unreservedly.”

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Dowson, primarily employed by North Yorkshire trainer Phil Kirby, made his first appearance in the National two years ago on Top Ville Ben.

Dowson shared riding duties on Kirby’s former star mare Lady Buttons, his Grade Two and Listed scorer of 2019. He also started Special Rate’s run of seven wins for the stable this season.

Melissa Jones