HARNESS Racing New South Wales (HRNSW) Stewards conducted an inquiry today into information provided by licensed trainer/driver Mr Troy Fletcher to HRNSW Steward, Mr Michael Jasprizza and HRNSW Investigator, Ms Natasha Ackland.
On Sunday 14 May 2017, HRNSW Stewards commenced an investigation into matters related to licensed trainer/driver, Mr Nathan Carroll. As a consequence of that investigation, Mr Fletcher was interviewed by HRNSW Steward Mr Jasprizza and provided information that he also provided to HRNSW Investigator, Ms Ackland on Monday 15 May 2017.
The information provided by Mr Fletcher was later found to be false and misleading and provided by Mr Fletcher in an attempt to conceal the movements of Mr Carroll.
HRNSW Stewards issued Mr Fletcher with a charge on 13 July 2017 by written correspondence pursuant to Australian Harness Racing Rule (AHRR) 187 (2) as follows:
AHRR 187. (2) A person shall not refuse to answer questions or to produce a horse, document, substance or piece of equipment, or give false or misleading evidence or information at an inquiry or investigation.
Mr Fletcher appeared and presented evidence at the inquiry.
Mr Fletcher pleaded guilty to the charge and was disqualified for a period of six months to commence immediately.
Mr Fletcher however was granted specific permission to continue to provide necessary care for horses in the control of licensed trainer Mr P Sykes who was presently overseas for a period to cease at midnight on Monday 7 August 2017.
This approval was granted solely from a welfare perspective, to feed and water the subject horses, and specifically excluded any training activity.
Mr Fletcher was advised of his right to appeal this decision.
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
