STEWARDS DECISION
OFFICE OF RACING INTEGRITY
and
Mr Mitch Ford
Date of inquiry: 6th & 14th October 2024
Stewards Panel: Michael Castillo (Chair); Carolyn Ellson
Rule: AHRR149(1)
Stewards today concluded an inquiry into the tactics that were adopted on the 3yo filly FREE TO PLAY during the running of Race 6 the TASSIE GOLDEN APPLE 1 DECEMBER PACE on Sunday 06-October 2024 at the Launceston Pacing Club.
Stewards following the running of the event on the night, questioned driver Mitch Ford regarding driving tactics and following evidence taken on this evening adjourned the inquiry to make further enquiries.
Today Monday the 14th of October 2024 at the offices of Racing Integrity, Stewards reconvened the Inquiry taking further evidence from Mitch Ford, Mr. Bill Dornauf (caretaker of FREE TO PLAY) and Victorian Trainer Emma Stewart and Clayton Tonkin, stable representative via telephone.
After carefully considering all evidence tendered, Stewards issued a charge to Mr Ford under provisions of AHRR 149 (1): A driver shall take all reasonable and permissible measures during the course of a race to ensure that the horse driven by that driver is given full opportunity to win or obtain the best possible placing in the field.
Stewards found driver Mitch Ford guilty of this offence under this rule and suspended his drivers license for a period of 5 Tasmanian race dates. Stewards took into account his good record in relation to this offence.
Driver Mitch Ford was advised of his appeal rights.
Decision Date: 14th October 2024
