Respected trainer calls for life bans if caught using tasers, jiggers

In the wake of Darren Weir’s shocking arrest, one respected trainer believes it is a precarious time for the industry with increased focus on animal welfare.

Darren Weir's horse Indian Rani race at Mornington on Wednesday. Picture: Tony Gough

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Thunderstorms brought an end to the Mornington races after three races on a day which they also hovered over the career of the man who has taken racing by storm in the past few years, Darren Weir.

One respected trainer though suggested as a result of this there was also a dark cloud hanging over the racing industry.

“If the trainers are found guilty of using tasers or jiggers they should get life. It’s reprehensible,” he said.

Darren Weir's horse Indian Rani race at Mornington on Wednesday. Picture: Tony Gough

The trainer said it was a terrible look for racing in terms of animal welfare.

He said it was a precarious time for the industry with increased focus on animal welfare.

“I believe this is what the industry doesn’t need. Everyone in the industry should be looking after the industry and the animal welfare.”

The trainer suggested said if the industry was to be sustainable for the next 20 years horse welfare had to be the first and foremost for all involved in the industry.

“These blokes should get life if they’ve used a jigger. They are used to shock an animal. It’s so irresponsible.”

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Trainers were reluctant to talk about it. No one wanted to speak on the record whether at the races or via the phone.

Some were shocked. Some weren’t surprised as to what happened.

One trainer said the rumours regarding Weir had been around for months. Other trainers were still trying to come to terms with what had occurred.

Some, who said they were friends of Weir said they were concerned for his well-being.

Others said it was a good thing that it proved Racing Victoria was vigilant and was working towards an even playing field which is what was wanted.

Former Weir apprentice Brady Cross, who became his race-day stable representative only six weeks ago was the seemingly reluctant public face of the team.

“It’s business as usual,” was his only comment.

He saddled up three runners for Weir with River Mist seventh in the first race, Indian Rani second in the second race and Congratulate fifth in the third race.

As for jockeys, none wanted to speak. One leading jockey who rides for Weir looked straight ahead when asked about the situation.

Darren Weir trained Congratulate (4) runs 5th at Mornington. Picture: Supplied

Regardless of what happened a crowd of around 1000 people was at Mornington watching the races.

Again the show will go on at Werribee and Pakenham.

Racing is resilient and has coped a number of blows relating to integrity in the last few years.

As one official remarked that if our local racing was to gain the worldwide respect of Hong Kong or Japan they had to police the industry in such a manner.