Decision to spell Group 1 winner Scales Of Justice under scrutiny
Stewards have questioned trainer Lindsey Smith at Flemington this week over the decision to spell Scales Of Justice following his recent fifth in the Group 1 Makybe Diva Stakes.
SuperRacing
Don't miss out on the headlines from SuperRacing. Followed categories will be added to My News.
A suspected bleeding episode is believed to be at the core of Racing Victoria’s inquiry into the spelling of multiple Group 1 winner Scales Of Justice.
Stewards questioned trainer Lindsey Smith at Flemington on Wednesday over the decision to spell the gelding after his fifth in the Group 1 Makybe Diva Stakes on September 14.
Stream over 50 sports live & anytime on your TV or favourite device with KAYO SPORTS. The biggest Aussie sports and the best from overseas. Just $25/month. No lock-in contract. Get your 14 day free trial
EXPERT TIPS: 10 YOUNG GUNS YOU NEED IN SUPERCOACH
Stewards quizzed Smith, stable forewoman Maddie Raymond and jockey Dean Yendall, who was aboard Scales Of Justice in the Makybe Diva Stakes.
Stewards also questioned an unidentified fourth person by telephone.
An irate Smith said the inquiry was “out of order”.
RV chief steward Robert Cram confirmed stewards were inquiring into the reason for spelling the gelding but did not elaborate on the veterinary details.
Under the rules of racing, trainers are obliged to report bleeding attacks.
In 2016, Bendigo trainer Bob Challis was suspended for six weeks for twice failing to report the presence of blood in Handicap Honours’ nostrils, once after a race and once after trackwork.
In assessing penalty, stewards took into account Challis’ guilty plea and good record “however noted it as a serious offence”.
“There is always the risk that a known bleeder could have a massive haemorrhage during a race or even a trial and a catastrophe could result,” the Racing Appeals and Disciplinary Board found.
“The principle of general deterrence was therefore a significant sentencing consideration.”
MORE NEWS
WEEKEND BEST BETS: MORE THAN ONE GEM HERE
THE EARLY OIL: GRAND FINAL NOT THE ONLY SHOW IN TOWN
QUINNY’S TIPS: GATTING ON PACE FOR BIG DOUBLE