The National Horseracing Authority confirms that at an Inquiry held on 25 August 2020 and which was finalised on 28 August 2020, Mr Shaun Leslie, a licenced Farrier under the Rules of Racing, was charged with a contravention of Rule 72.1.26.

The specifics of the charge being that Mr Leslie was observed striking BIG HELLO’S with a lead rope, whilst this horse was proving to be stubborn during the pre-race parade, prior to Race 5 at Hollywoodbets Greyville Racecourse on 25 July 2020. This, in the opinion of The NHA, was conduct which discredited horseracing.

Mr Leslie pleaded not guilty to the charge, however, he was found guilty of the charge.

In arriving at a suitable penalty, the Inquiry Board took the view that The NHA, as the regulator of Horseracing in Southern Africa, is tasked with upholding the good name and reputation of the sport of horseracing and has the responsibility to appropriately censure conduct such as that displayed by Mr Leslie.

Mr Leslie’s licence as an Official under the Rules of The NHA was cancelled for a period of 90 days, after which he may apply for its reinstatement.

Mr Leslie has the Right of Appeal against the finding and the penalty imposed.

NHA