Everest Trainer Ben Smith Suspended
Racing NSW announced that an inquiry had begun relative to an inspection of Benjamin Smith’s Broadmeadow stables conducted by stewards and Racing NSW investigators today following advice of sample irregularities from two of his horses.
Conditioner Benjamin Smith's charge In Her Time is admidst preparations for the A$13 million Everest.
The inspection found a number of unlabelled and/or unregistered and/or unidentifiable substances that were seized by the stewards and investigators. They were located in Smith’s stables, vehicle and residence.
All substances have been dispatched to the Australian Racing Forensic Laboratory for analysis.
Smith’s mobile phone and laptop computer were also confiscated for the purposes of forensic imaging.
Racing NSW announced today that the following charges have been laid against Smith:-
AR175(f) – Refusing to provide evidence, the particulars being that he refused to provide the name/s of the persons who supplied him with the unlabelled and/or unregistered and/or unidentifiable products found in his possession.
Smith has not entered a please to this charge.
AR175(g) – Providing false evidence, the particulars being that on two occasions he provided false evidence to the stewards during the stable inspection.
Smith has pleaded guilty to this charge.
Given the seriousness of the charges the stewards have adjourned the inquiry to enable Smith an opportunity to seek appropriate advice.
However the stewards have determined that the continued participation of Smith did pose an unacceptable risk to, and prejudice or undermine the image, interests and integrity of the racing industry.
Accordingly his trainer’s licence should be suspended pending the hearing and determination of charges against Smith.
Stewards have deferred the commencement of the suspension for seven days until September 18 on the basis that Smith is not permitted to nominate, accept or start a horse in a race or barrier trial during the seven-day period.
Credit: Ritesh Jamkhedkar ritesh.jamkhedkar@secretariatsworld.com