News & Media

26 October 2009 Thoroughbred Media Release

RWWA Stewards today concluded the inquiry, commenced on Saturday 3 October 2009 at Belmont Park, into the finding of a modified padded whip in the possession of Apprentice Duncan Miller.

This was the fourth Stewards hearing into this matter.

At the previous hearing on Friday, 16 October 2009 Apprentice Miller was charged under ARR 175 (a) with an improper practice. The particulars of the charge being that Apprentice Miller carried and used in races and trials, in the period between 1st August 2009 and 3rd October 2009, a whip which had weighted objects in the padded section of the whip.

Further, Apprentice Miller was charged under ARR 137A(1)(b) for carrying in races and trials in the period between 1st August 2009 and 3rd October 2009, a whip which was not in a satisfactory condition and which had been modified by weighted objects being fitted into the padded section of the whip.

Apprentice Miller pleaded not guilty to both charges.

Today, further evidence was taken from Apprentice Duncan Miller, Host Trainer Mr Neville Parnham, Mrs Sharon Miller (Mother of Apprentice Miller) and Apprentice Miller’s Legal Representative Ms Belinda Lonsdale.

After consideration Apprentice Miller was found guilty to both charges.

In consideration of penalty Stewards took into account the following:

• The seriousness of the charges
• The damage done to the image of racing
• The potential impact of the welfare on the racing animal
• The fact that Duncan Miller is an Apprentice

In relation to the improper practice charge under ARR175(a) Apprentice Miller was disqualified for a period 12 Months effective from 4th October 2009.

Further, in relation to the charge under ARR137A(1)(b) Apprentice Miller was disqualified for a period of 6 Months effective from 4th October 2009.

Both these penalties are effective immediately and to run concurrently.

JOHN A. ZUCAL

RWWA Chairman of Stewards

 

For more information contact:

Racing and Wagering Western Australia
Stewards Division
70 Grandstand Road
Ascot WA 6104
Ph: (08) 9277 0777