Harness Racing South Australia Stewards conducted an inquiry into an alleged incident that occurred in the lower bar area and soon after in the horse float car park at Globe Derby Park on Saturday the 7th of December, involving Mr Michael A Smith and Mr Dean Girardi.
At the inquiry Mr Smith and Mr Girardi were found guilty of a breach of Australian Harness Racing Rule 231(2) which states:
“A person shall not misconduct himself in any way.”
The particulars being that Mr Smith and Mr Girardi conducted themselves in an inappropriate manner by engaging in a verbal and physical altercation between both individuals at Globe Derby Park on the 7th of December.
After considering submissions on penalty and after having regard to the following relevant factors:
- Evidence provided by witnesses and CCTV footage.
- Mr Smith and Mr Girardi’s admission of the breach.
- The need for general and specific deterrence.
- Their record with respect to conduct related matters.
- Mr Smith and Mr Girardi’s personal circumstances.
In Relation to Mr Girardi, Stewards believed the appropriate sanction was a fine of $500.00, which was fully suspended on the proviso he not re-offend under any conduct related rules for the following 2 years.
In Relation to Mr Smith, Stewards believed the appropriate sanction was a fine of $1,000.00, with $600.00 of that fine suspended, on the proviso he not re-offend under any conduct related rules for the following 2 years.
Mr Smith and Mr Girardi were advised of their rights of appeal
The Stewards firmly remind all participants of the absolute requirement to conduct themselves in an appropriate manner at all times. The Stewards will not tolerate unacceptable behaviour or language at a race meeting, or at any time when harness racing activities are being conducted.
Failure to adhere to these requirements will result in significant penalties being imposed.
SIMON EWEN | HRSA CHAIRMAN OF STEWARDS
