In addition to announced that its CEO is retiring, the Ontario Racing Commission also today released its rulings on a total of seven appeals, four pertaining to the standardbred industry and three relating to the thoroughbred industry.
In regard to the standardbred industry rulings, an ORC panel has denied an appeal by horseman Nick Boyd regarding a fine and driving suspension stemming from a May 10 steer at Kawartha Downs. The ruling states that the penalty of a $300 fine and a five-day driving suspension from July 24 to July 28, 2012, inclusive, will apply. Also, the placing of the horse Rhapsody Star from fifth to ninth will stand. To view the ORC ruling, click here.
In regard to the appeal of Jesse Edwards --- who had been given a $750 fine and a 15-day full suspension for treating the horse Lizabel with medications that were not prescribed by a licensed ORC veterinarian --- Edwards gave verbal reasons why he wished to withdraw his appeal. The ORC panel accepted his reasons and decided not to assess costs. The penalty of a $750 fine and 15-day full suspension stands. The days are July 24 to August 2, 2012, inclusive. To view the ORC ruling, click here.
In relation to the Edwards/Lizabel situation, the ORC also ruled on the appeal of James Marchment, which was in regard to having been handed a $500 fine for violation of SB Rule 6.20 (b), misconduct prejudicial to the best interests of racing, by supplying medications to another participant. The medications supplied were not prescribed by a veterinarian for the horse Lizabel. After reviewing the evidence and hearing testimony, the ORC panel denied the appeal, but reduced the fine to $200. To view the ORC ruling, click here.
The ORC also announced its ruling on an appeal of driver Doug McNair, which had to do with a 10-day driving suspension with three days stayed and two years probation for failing to attend a hearing on February 22, 2012, pursuant to a Summons to a Witness and Rule 24.03 of the Rules of Standardbred Racing. After reviewing evidence and hearing testimony, the ORC panel denied the appeal, but modified the penalty to a $500 fine, eight days driving suspension (with three days stayed) and two years probation from August 3, 2012 to August 3, 2014. McNair will serve his days from July 29 to August 02, 2012 inclusive. To view the ORC ruling, click here.
(With files from the ORC)