HARNESS Racing New South Wales (HRNSW) Stewards conducted an inquiry yesterday into the conduct of licensed trainer/driver, Mr Mark Forrest, on Thursday 13 October 2016 in relation to the registered standardbred LIVE IN STYLE, a horse trained by Mr Forrest that was engaged to race in race six, the JIM MORRIS REMEMBRANCE PACE (2125m) at Penrith on that date. LIVE IN STYLE was subsequently withdrawn from the race by order of the Stewards.
An investigation was commenced on 13 October 2016 after HRNSW Investigator/Senior Steward, Mr Chris Paul observed Mr Forrest administer an injection to LIVE IN STYLE at his registered training establishment.
Mr Forrest attend the inquiry and provided evidence in relation to the horse LIVE IN STYLE and his husbandry practices. Evidence was also presented by Mr Chris Paul, including video and audio recordings.
HRNSW Stewards issued the following charge against Mr Forrest pursuant to Australian Harness Racing Rule 193(3) as follows:
AHRR 193. (3) A person shall not administer or allow or cause to be administered any medication to a horse on race day prior to such horse running in a race.
In the alternative Mr Forrest was issued with the following charge under Rule 196B (1) as follows:
AHRR 196B. (1) A person shall not without the permission of the Stewards within one (1) clear day of the commencement of a race administer, attempt to administer or cause to be administered an injection to a horse nominated for that race.
Mr Forrest was found guilty of both offences. In respect of the charge pursuant to Rule 193(3), Mr Forrest was disqualified for a period of nine months to commence from 13 October 2016, the date upon which he was stood down.
In respect of the charge pursuant to Rule 196B(1), Stewards set aside the matter of penalty.
In considering penalty Stewards were mindful of the following:
The serious nature of this offence;
Mr Forrest’s Not Guilty plea;
Mr Forrest’s first offence of this nature;
Mr Forrest’s licence history and other personal subjective facts.
Mr Forrest was advised of his right to appeal this decision.
Harness Racing NSW (HRNSW) is the controlling body for harness racing in New South Wales with responsibility for commercial and regulatory management of the industry including 33 racing clubs across the State. HRNSW is headed by an industry-appointed Board of Directors and is independent of Government.
To arrange an interview or for further information please contact:
Reid Sanders
CHIEF OPERATIONS OFFICER
p: (02) 9722 6600
e: rsanders@hrnsw.com.au
