No Prior Knowledge Says Bailey
Racing Victoria's outgoing chief steward Terry Bailey said his integrity team were aware of the rumours surrounding the Aquanita stables. However he denied allegations that he had prior knowledge of their illegal activities.
Flemington-based trainer Mat Ellerton told the Four Corners program 'Off Track' that he had relayed information about strange activities' and possible race-day treatment by Aquanita employees to stewards some years ago but that nothing had been done.
Bailey said he would prefer steeper penalties be imposed for those transgressing the race-day treatment rules, which have evolved quickly in recent years.
"Racing's cleaner that it was 10 years ago, it is cleaner than it was five years ago and even 12 months ago," he said. "Yes, we are getting better at stamping illegal practices out.
"I've seen most integrity measures around the world during my time in Victoria and I can assure you, ours is world class."
Credit: Ritesh Jamkhedkar ritesh.jamkhedkar@secretariatsworld.com