The National Horseracing Authority confirms that at an Inquiry held in Cape Town on 1 March 2010, Jockey Brandon Morgenrood (PICTURED) was charged with a contravention of Rule 72.1.18, in that after leaving the starting stalls he directed abusive language towards the Starter, a licensed official of The National Horseracing Authority of Southern Africa, during the performance of his duties after he had started Race 5 at Kenilworth Racecourse, on 24 February 2010.

Mr B Morgenrood pleaded guilty to the above charge.

During the same Inquiry, Jockey Brandon Morgenrood was charged with a contravention of Rule 72.1.26, in that on his return to the weighing room and in front of bystanders, by virtue of the abusive language that he used in reference to the people at the start of that race, he brought into disrepute the good name of The National Horseracing Authority, and The National Horseracing Authority Starter who was on duty at the start of the race.

Mr B Morgenrood pleaded guilty to the above charge.

The Inquiry Board found Mr Morgenrood guilty as charged and in handing down a penalty considered both charges together. The Inquiry Board imposed a R5,000.00 fine, of which R2,500.00 is wholly suspended for a period of one year, provided that Mr Morgenrood is not found guilty of a contravention of Rule 72.1.18 and, or Rule 72.1.26, during that period.

Mr Morgenrood has the Right of Appeal against the penalty imposed.