On 25 June 2015, Harness Racing New South Wales (HRNSW) concluded an inquiry into an investigation that commenced on 14 April 2015 in relation to Mr Hewitt associating with a disqualified person, Mr Shannon Wonson.
Mr Hewitt was issued with a charge pursuant to Australian Harness Racing Rule 230 in that he did associate with a disqualified person Mr Shannon Wonson for a purpose related to harness racing. That purpose related to Mr Shannon Wonson engaging him as the driver for the registered standardbred THE CHAMP IS HERE, which was entered to race at the Bathurst harness meeting on 10 April 2015.
Mr Hewitt made an admission in relation to that charge.
Consequently, Mr Hewitt’s training and driving licences were suspended for a period of one (1) month to commence from midnight on 30 June 2015. In addition, Mr Hewitt was fined $5,000 with that amount wholly suspended for a period of 12 months.
In determining penalty, Stewards considered submissions made by Mr Hewitt, the circumstances in which the association occurred, the early admission of the charge by Mr Hewitt and his offence history.
Harness Racing NSW (HRNSW) is the controlling body for harness racing in New South Wales with responsibility for commercial and regulatory management of the industry including 31 racing clubs across the State. HRNSW is headed by an industry-appointed Board of Directors and is independent of Government.
To arrange an interview or for further information please contact:
Name: Reid Sanders
Position: Chief Operations Officer
Phone: (02) 9722 6600
Email: rsanders@hrnsw.com.au
