STEWARDS INQUIRY - DRIVER SCOTT FORD
The Office of Racing Integrity stewards have concluded an inquiry which began on 31 March 2016 into the circumstances surrounding Mr Scott Ford failing to provide a urine sample when driving trackwork at Ubet Park, Elwick on Wednesday 9 March 2016 and at the Brighton Training Complex on 10 March 2016.
Mr Ford was found guilty of a charge under AHRR 250(1)(b) which states:
“A driver commits an offence if he fails to deliver a sample as directed by the Stewards.”
In determining penalty, stewards took into consideration -
- Mr Ford’s not guilty plea;
- his personal circumstances; and
- the importance of participants providing samples when directed to ensure the safety and welfare of participants, horses and the integrity of the industry.
Stewards issued Mr Ford with the following penalty:
- Mr Ford’s licence to drive in races was suspended for a period of 3 months, which was backdated to 10 March 2016 on which date he had been stood down from driving pending the inquiry. The suspension will expire at midnight on 9 June 2016.
Mr Ford will be permitted to carry out stablehand duties, however a clear sample must be provided prior to him driving trackwork or trials.
Mr Ford was advised of his rights of appeal.
- ends -
Adrian Crowther
Chairman of Stewards - Harness