News & Media

25 September 2008 Stewards' Inquiry - Harness

Stewards this afternoon concluded the inquiry into the driving tactics adopted by Darren Kerr (JOHNNY VETERAN) in Race 1 the Peters Giant Sandwich Stakes (1730 MB) at Gloucester Park on Friday 19 September 2008.

On Friday evening Mr Kerr had been questioned on his reasons for remaining behind the leader MAJOR MONEY MAKER NZ (Callan Suvaljko) until near the 50m when it appeared as though there was an opportunity for him to ease to the leader’s outside from entering the home straight. Mr Kerr had explained that, in his opinion, there had been insufficient room for him to have shifted at that point as MISTER ALBERT (Grant Williams) had started to move inwards from the three wide line to his outside as DAYS OF GRACE (Donald Harper) commenced to give ground from the lead of the one wide line. In addition he considered that JOHNNY VETERAN raced best when held up for a short final sprint.

At today’s sitting further evidence was taken from Mr Kerr and Mr Kevin Nolan, trainer of JOHNNY VETERAN.

Mr Kerr was found guilty to a charge, issued under the provisions of RWWA Rule of Harness Racing 149(1), of failing to taking all reasonable and permissible measures during the course of the race to ensure that JOHNNY VETERAN was given full opportunity to win.

His driver’s licence was suspended for a period of 2 months concurrent with a 20 day suspension incurred at Gloucester Park on Saturday 20 September 2008.

In assessing penalty Stewards took into account the circumstances of the offence, Mr Kerr’s previous record and his personal circumstances.

Bill Delaney
Chief Steward - Harness

For more information contact:
Racing and Wagering Western Australia
Harness Stewards
Gloucester Park
East Perth WA
Ph: (08) 9323 3552