At the request of the HRSA Board, Thoroughbred Racing SA (TRSA) Stewards Mr J. Petzer (Chairman of Stewards) and Mr M. Santoro (Deputy Chairman) concluded an inquiry into the alleged conduct of Trainer/Driver Mr P. Tidswell at the trials conducted at Globe Derby Park on Sunday 24 August 2014. Mr Tidswell attended inquiries on Thursday 4 September and Monday 22 September 2014.
Evidence was taken from Mr Tidswell, Chair of Stewards HRSA (Ms. B Scott), Deputy Chair of Stewards HRSA (Mr. D. Southgate) and Clerk of the Course HRSA (Mr. G. Carter).
Mr Tidswell pleaded guilty to a charge under Rule 231(2); the particulars being that he misconducted himself at the Globe Derby trials on Sunday 24 August 2014 by using and directing foul language in an aggressive manner towards the HRSA Chair of Stewards.
In determining the penalty, Stewards considered Mr Tidswell’s guilty plea, his forthright evidence and his remorse for engaging in the conduct. Stewards also considered Mr. Tidswell’s record which did not reflect well. In addition, Stewards were mindful of the serious nature of the breach. Stewards also took into account Mr Tidswell had been stood down/barred from all training and driving activity on 24 August 2014. Consequently Mr Tidswell was;
- Disqualified for a period of 2 months to commence at midnight on Wednesday 24 September, which expires at midnight on Monday 24 November 2014, and
- Suspended for a period of 12 months with particular reference to him being allowed to hold a Driver’s license. The period of suspension was backdated to commence on 24 August 2014, the day on which he was stood down/barred, and will expire at midnight on 24 August 2015.
Mr. Tidswell was advised of his right of appeal.
