Trainer cops $1000 fine for inappropriate language

A trainer was slapped with a $1000 fine after he directed inappropriate language at stewards following the late scratching of his VRC Oaks runner at Flemington.

Trainer Ben Smith was left disappointed after Vieste was a late scratching from the VRC Oaks. Picture: File

Jockeys Blake Shinn and Billy Egan were suspended and fined over whip breaches on Thursday as trainer Ben Smith copped a $1000 fine for inappropriate language directed at stewards following the late scratching of his Oaks runner Vieste.

Shinn, who rode a double on the day, pleaded guilty to overuse of the whip on Little Mix, who won the Good Friday Appeal Trophy. He had 10 strikes prior to the 100m and 15 strikes in total.

He was suspended for eight meetings and was handed a $2000 fine, with the ban beginning on November 19.

He will resume riding on November 26.

Purple delight 💜

As we raise awareness for the Good Friday Appeal at Flemington, LITTLE MIX takes out the inaugural Good Friday Appeal Trophy in a competitive affair to give the @ANeashamRacing stable their first win on #OaksDay.

📽 @10SportAUpic.twitter.com/3ouSiiySkh

— Victoria Racing Club (@FlemingtonVRC) November 9, 2023

Egan was suspended for nine meetings out of the same race after having nine strikes prior to the 100m and 17 in total.

His mount, Rebadge, was narrowly beaten by Little Mix.

Egan’s suspension, which starts on November 19, will run through until November 27.

Vieste was found to be lame by stewards and was scratched two hours before the VRC Oaks.

Smith was charged with improper conduct after using inappropriate language as he exited the stewards room.

Originally published as Trainer cops $1000 fine for inappropriate language