A high South African jockey will face an inquiry after trying to belt a fellow rider with the whip quite than experience a favourite to the road in a race at Turffontein on Sunday.
Gavin Lerena, who’s in competition for the South African jockeys’ title, will seem in entrance of a Nationwide Horseracing Authority after standing within the irons to hit jockey Jason Gates with the whip within the final 150m of a race.
Lerena appeared to strike Gates a number of occasions with the whip whereas aboard the 28/10 favourite Gimme A Storm.
And in response, Gates tried to strike Lerena.
Lerena later supplied an apology for his function within the incident however stated his actions had been a response to Gates’ earlier actions.
“I feel it is imperative to offer a formal statement to the racing community,” Lerena’s assertion learn.
“What came about is completely inconsistent with my character, and I deeply remorse the incident.
“I prolong my sincerest apologies to the house owners and coach of the horse, my sponsors, the racing followers, and the related race day authorities affected.
“I do need to make clear that my response adopted encounters and actions from Gates.
“In any aggressive sport, the instinctual response to a perceived menace, provocation, or aggression can result in a response that, below regular circumstances, we might not exhibit.
“I acknowledge that my response has raised views and opinions.”
“This sport of racing has a particular place in my coronary heart; I maintain it within the highest regard and stay devoted to contributing positively to its status.
“I intention to uphold the values that make racing actually distinctive.
“Regrettably, today’s incident detracted from that commitment, and I am deeply remorseful for any disappointment caused to the punters, owners, trainer, fans, and officials.”
The listening to will happen on a date to be mounted.
