Harness – Stewards Inquiry – Trainer Dennis Dale – DON’T BE TEASIN ME
1 July, 2016
Harness
On Tuesday 21 June 2016, RWWA Stewards conducted an inquiry concerning the withdrawal of DON’T BE TEASIN ME in Race 5 at Kellerberrin on 22 May 2016 following a report received from the RWWA Assistant Starter, that a substance had been administered to the nostrils of the horse.
Evidence was taken from the Trainer of DON’T BE TEASIN ME, Mr D Dale, RWWA Steward in Charge at Kellerberrin on the day Mr Chris Courtland, RWWA Assistant Starter, Mr Tim Scala, RWWA Investigator, Mr Paul Criddle who had also conducted an inspection of Mr Dale’s training premises and RWWA Industry Veterinarian, Dr Judith Medd.
After pleading not guilty to a charge issued under Harness Rule of Racing 196A (1) (i) with the particulars of the charge being that at Kellerberrin in the stall area on 22 May 2016, shortly before its engagement in race 5, Mr Dale did administer Home Brand Chest Rub which contains the prohibited substance “camphor” to the nostrils of DON’T BE TEASIN ME for the purpose of affecting its performance in that race, the inquiry was adjourned with the Stewards reserving their decision.
On Friday 24 June 2016, Mr Dale was advised that the Stewards had determined to find him guilty as charged.
After hearing submissions on the matter of penalty at an inquiry on the 29 June 2016, Stewards determined on 1 July 2016 to impose a disqualification of 12-months effective immediately.
In determining penalty Stewards took into account:
- The seriousness of the matter and the need for the penalty to serve as an active deterrent
- That the substance involved was not a prescription medicine but one that was common and readily available. Further that it was used as a topical application as opposed to an oral or other administration.
- Mr Dale’s length of time involved in harness racing and his record
- That the evidence did not establish the reason why Mr Dale had applied the substance to the nostrils of the horse.
- That the horse was withdrawn from the race by the Stewards
- Previous penalties issued under similar rules.
Participants are again reminded of the published notices issued by RWWA that state “The application of Glycerine and/or Vicks Vaporub® by any means is not permitted prior to racing on race day.”
Media Contact:
Denis Borovica – General Manager Racing Integrity
Ph: 9445 5427
denis.borovica@rwwa.com.au