Harness Racing Victoria stewards yesterday conducted an inquiry into an incident in race seven at Warragul on Friday, November 18.
This incident occurred at the turn into the back straight on the first occasion, when Summer Reign had to be checked and subsequently fell causing Desert Red, which was following, to be severely checked and driver Ted Demmler to be unseated.
After considering evidence from Craig Demmler (Hearts Beat True), Chris Alford (Summer Reign) and viewing video footage of the incident Craig Demmler was charged under Rule 163(1)(a) with causing interference.
Stewards formed the view that Craig Demmler permitted Hearts Beat True, to shift in when not clear of Summer Reign causing that horse to be severely checked and fall, unseating Chris Alford from the sulky.
As a result of this Desert Red, which was following, was also severely checked and driver Ted Demmler was also unseated.
Garry Wild, Gates Closed and Johnny Veteran were also severely checked as a consequence of this interference.
After considering further submissions from Craig Demmler, he was found guilty under Rule 163(1)(a).
In determining an appropriate penalty Stewards took into account submissions made by Craig Demmler, severity of the interference and his driving record.
After considering all these factors his driver’s licence was suspended for a period of six weeks commencing at midnight last night.
Demmler has today lodged an appeal against the suspension, which will be heard next Monday, December 5.
In the interim he has been granted a stay of proceedings to continue driving.
