Harness – Stewards Inquiry – Trainer Mr Dylan Quadrio
7 March, 2018
Harness
On Thursday 1 March 2018 Stewards conducted an inquiry into the report from RWWA Chief Steward Harness Ms. B Scott and Harness Form Analyst Mr T. Styles concerning communications from Mr D. Quadrio to another licensed person in relation to races where he had horses engaged, particularly in relation to Race 7 at Kellerberrin on 22 October 2017.
Evidence was taken from Mr Styles and Mr Quadrio in relation to the comprehensive report provided which included messages retrieved following an examination of Mr Quadrio’s phone which had been seized by the investigating Stewards.
Mr Quadrio subsequently pleaded guilty to a charge under RWWA Harness Rule of Racing 240 (c) with the particulars being that Mr D. Quadrio did send a text message to Driver I. Edwards (OUR BIG SLOW) in relation to Race 7 at Kellerberrin on 22 October 2017 with the intent to influence his driving tactics in a manner that would have assisted his runner which in the opinion of the Stewards was improper.
Having reserved the decision on penalty the Stewards have now completed their deliberations and determined to impose a disqualification of nine (9) months.
In considering the appropriate penalty for the offence the Stewards took into account;
- Mr Quadrio’s personal circumstances, overall record, length and depth of involvement in harness racing and that it was not his livelihood.
- Mr Quadrio’s co-operation through all stages of the investigation and his immediate acknowledgement of guilt and genuine expressions of regret for his actions.
- That the comprehensive examination of his phone which was seized by the investigators supported this to be a one off event with no other offending messages found.
- That the message sent was not responded to, or acted upon and there was no evidence that the tactics of any runner or the running of the race was affected by the message.
- That the message did not contain any direct inducement or offer.
- That there was no betting of concern identified with respect to the race in question.
- The potential for such message to tarnish the positive image of harness racing and the need for a clear message of deterrence that such conduct is serious.