Outcome of Appeal – Mr Mario Borg
The South Australian Racing Appeals Tribunal today delivered its reserved decision regarding an appeal lodged by Mr Mario Borg against a decision of the Stewards to disqualify him for a period of five months, after ITS BEDLAM returned a positive drug test to the substance dexapent following its race at Globe Derby Park on Monday 12th December 2016.
In the ensuing period Mr Borg has continued to train and drive under a stay of proceedings.
The result of the appeal was that Mr Borg’s appeal against conviction was dismissed however, with respect to penalty, the Tribunal varied the disqualification to a fine with the outcome being Mr Borg was penalised $3,500.00, this consisting of a $2,000 fine for offence and $1,500 costs.
In reaching its finding the Tribunal placed emphasis on the fact that Mr Borg had relied upon veterinary advice when treating ITS BEDLAM and this was reflective in the penalty imposed.
Acting under the provisions of AHRR 195, ITS BEDLAM was disqualified from its first placing in Race 8 at Globe Derby Park on 12th December 2016 and Stewards directed that the placings be amended accordingly.