The National Horseracing Authority (“NHA”) confirms that an appeal lodged by Assistant Trainer P R S Waugh, was heard in Johannesburg on 23 August 2016. The Appeal was against the finding and penalty imposed by an Inquiry Board which had inquired into an alleged incident that took place in the security area at Scottsville Racecourse between Mr Waugh and a Groom.

Background

The Inquiry Board charged Mr Waugh with a contravention of Rule 72.1.25 in that he conducted himself in an improper manner by physically abusing an employee of Paul Lafferty Racing Stable at Scottsville Racecourse on the 10th June 2015.

Mr Waugh pleaded not guilty to the charge, but was found guilty of the charge by the Inquiry Board and a penalty of R7500.00 was imposed.

Mr Waugh had the right of appeal against both the finding and the penalty imposed.

Mr Waugh appealed against both the finding and the penalty imposed.

However, at the commencement of proceedings, neither Mr Waugh nor his legal representative appeared before the Appeal Board and accordingly, the matter was heard in Mr Waugh’s absence.

The Appeal Board, after having regard to the record, the grounds of appeal submitted by Mr Waugh and the submissions of the NHA, confirmed both the finding and penalty imposed by the Inquiry Board, dismissed the appeal and declared Mr Waugh’s deposit fee forfeited.

Furthermore, the Appeal Board acting in terms of Rule 85.5.7, ordered that Mr Waugh pay all of the actual costs and other expenses reasonably incurred by The NHA in connection with the appeal.