URGENT APPLICATION – HIGH COURT OF SOUTH AFRICA, GAUTENG DIVISION, JOHANNESBURG

An urgent application was brought by Jockey Muziwandile Yeni, represented by Adv Nigel Riley, on 16 March 2023.

The National Horseracing Authority confirms that it was the First Respondent in this urgent application which was heard today in the High Court of South Africa, Gauteng Division, Johannesburg.

Background:

The relief sought was that the interim suspension that was imposed on him and Jockey Billy Jacobson by The National Horseracing Authority (NHA) on 15 February 2023, following an incident at Hollywoodbets Greyville Racecourse on 13 February 2023, be lifted with immediate effect and that they be permitted to ride in races under the control of the NHA.

The National Horseracing Authority was represented by Adv Gerry Nel (SC) and responded through an answering affidavit, which was deposed by its Racing Control Executive, Mr Arnold Hyde.

After considering the matter, the Judge ordered that;
1. The application was postponed sine die.
2. The inquiry will continue on 23, 27, 28, and 29 March 2023.
3. The suspension will therefore remain in place. In the event of the inquiry not being concluded by 29 March 2023, Yeni may once again approach the court for relief.
The costs of the hearing were reserved.

Vee Moodley
Chief Executive

 NHA press release