ON December 28, 2016, Harness Racing NSW (HRNSW) Stewards commenced an inquiry into a number of conduct-related matters that had been referred to HRNSW.
Subsequent to this hearing and the provision of certain medical history, charges were laid against Mr Spencer and detailed by letter dated February, 27, 2017.
The trainer’s initial response was received on March 3, 2017, and was subsequently varied by email from Mr Hammond representing Mr Spencer.
In this email Mr Spencer admitted the charges and submissions were provided on penalty.
On Friday, May 19, 2017, HRNSW Stewards announced the following penalties:
Charges 1, 2 and 3 – Pursuant to AHRR 231(1)(d)
The charges related to Mr Spencer’s various conduct towards three licensed trainers occurring during October and November, 2016, in proximity of the Maitland Showground whilst those trainers were legitimately involved in activities relating to harness racing.
Charge 1 – A fine of $500. Stewards order $250 of this amount be suspended on the proviso that Mr Spencer not be found guilty of any breach under the rules relating to conduct within a period of twelve (12) months.
Charge 2 – A fine of $1000. Stewards order $600 of this amount be suspended on the proviso that Mr Spencer not be found guilty of any breach under the rules relating to conduct within a period of twelve (12) months.
Charge 3 – A fine of $1000. Stewards order $600 of this amount be suspended on the proviso that Mr Spencer not be found guilty of any breach under the rules relating to conduct within a period of twelve (12) months.
Charge 4 - Pursuant to AHRR 91(1)(a)
The charge related to Mr Spencer being observed driving track-work at Maitland on Thursday, November 10, 2016, when not the holder of a current licence. Stewards determined the appropriate penalty to be a fine of $200.
Charge 5 - Pursuant to AHRR 231(1)(a)
The charge related to Mr Spencer’s conduct towards Steward D Westwood whilst adjacent to the Stewards’ Room at Newcastle Harness Racing Club on Saturday November 19, 2016.
Noting that the trainer had been stood down from the industry from November 25, 2016, Stewards considered the appropriate penalty in this matter would be a suspension of licence for a period of six (6) months and having regard to “time served” ordered that embargo cease as of midnight Thursday, May 25, 2017.
In determining these penalties Stewards noted Mr Spencer’s pleas, his previous disciplinary record, the circumstances of the offences and certain subjective advanced on his behalf.
Stewards informed Mr Spencer of his right to appeal these decisions.
Mr Spencer was cautioned not to undertake any activities relating to harness racing whilst not the holder of a licence and also advised that should he desire to again make application to be licensed by HRNSW he will be required to satisfy these penalties prior to any application being considered.
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 33 racing clubs across the State. HRNSW is headed by a Board of Directors and is independent of Government.
To arrange an interview or for further information please contact:
MICHAEL PRENTICE | INTEGRITY MANAGER
(02) 9722 6600 • mprentice@hrnsw.com.au
GRAHAM LOCH | CHAIRMAN OF STEWARDS
(02) 9722 6600 • gloch@hrnsw.com.au
