Follow Up Report

MENANGLE 29/09/2026

Race 5, FAKE FRIENDS - Driving Tactics/Failure to attend Inquiry

Tabcorp Park Menangle – 29 September 2026

RACE 5 -NUTRIEN EQUINE NSW BREEDERS CHALLENGE 3YO FILLIES HEAT - ROUND 1 (1609 MS)

On Tuesday 20 October 2026, Stewards concluded their inquiry into the driving tactics adopted on FAKE FRIENDS, in particular the speed of the event during the second quarter which was recorded in 27.4 seconds whilst FAKE FRIENDS was leading unpressured. 

During the adjournment an analysis of the wagering on the race was conducted with no areas of concern identified.

When questioned Mr Grimson explained that he drove FAKE FRIENDS forward at the start consistent with the filly’s usual racing pattern and upon securing the lead he was cautious to not restrain FAKE FRIENDS too significantly as previously the filly had broken gait as evidenced by its prior record (Bathurst 13/05/2026, Menangle 23/05/2026 & Menangle 11/04/2026). Mr Grimson further explained that he expected a forward showing as the filly had trialled well leading into the event on 23 September 2026 in a fast 1:51.9 and felt FAKE FRIENDS would derive benefit from the run as the filly was first up in this event. Mr Grimson advised when questioned that he was unaware of the exact positioning of stablemate ONE MORE REASON and unaware that it had ultimately broken gait at the 800 metres.

Mr Grimson was further questioned regarding his driving out of FAKE FRIENDS inside the final 300 metres where he explained he was looking to his outside to establish the position of FAKE FRIENDS relative to the other runners in the race as this was a qualifying race of the Breeders Challenge series.

Upon consideration of all the evidence Stewards took the matter no further, however advised Mr Grimson that in their opinion he erred by not steadying the speed during the second quarter. Stewards further advised that whilst it was accepted the racing manners of FAKE FRIENDS were a relevant factor it was advised that should Mr Grimson steady the speed and FAKE FRIENDS break gait, action would be taken against FAKE FRIENDS, as opposed to direct action against him as the driver for driving in an unacceptable manner.  Mr Grimson was also advised to refrain from looking around as frequently over the concluding stages, particularly when he has multiple runners engaged in a race, as it may give rise to unfavourable inferences being drawn.

Mr Grimson pleaded guilty to a charge under Rule 238 in that after being directed to attend an inquiry following the subject race he failed to attend as required. In assessing penalty Stewards considered Mr Grimson’s guilty plea, his prior offence record and the circumstances of the offending. Stewards accordingly imposed a fine of $200 and advised Mr Grimson that should he not attend an inquiry as required in future consideration may be given to suspending his drivers licence until the inquiry is finalised.