8 August 2016
On Monday 8 August 2016, Harness Racing NSW (HRNSW) Stewards conducted an Inquiry into a report received from the Stewards at the Bankstown race meeting on Monday, 1 August, 2016 that Driver L Booth had failed to provide a urine sample prior to leaving the racecourse. Attempts to locate L Booth later in the afternoon were unsuccessful.
Before the Stewards today L Booth provided an explanation to his circumstances on the day and his grandfather, Licensed Trainer R Baverstock, also provided a submission to Stewards.
L Booth pleaded guilty to a charge pursuant to Australian Harness Racing Rule 250(1)(b) in that after driving at the Bankstown race meeting on Monday, 1 August 2016 he had left the racecourse having failed to provide a sample as directed by Stewards acting within the powers provided.
L Booth’s Licence was suspended in full for a period of 6 months commencing from 2 August, 2016, the date upon which he was stood down.
In determining this penalty Stewards took into account his guilty plea as well as personal subjective and mitigating factors. In regards to the mitigating factors, at the expiration of four months of this penalty, L Booth is permitted to furnish written evidence in regards to these matters for the further consideration of the Stewards.
Mr Booth was advised that prior to any future licence being granted he would be required to provide a sample free of substances banned under the rules upon direction.
L Booth 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.
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To arrange an interview or for further information please contact:
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Name:
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Reid Sanders
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Position:
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Chief Operating Officer
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Phone:
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(02) 9722 6600
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Email:
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rsanders@hrnsw.com.au
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