Harness Racing New South Wales (HRNSW) Stewards conducted an inquiry today following an investigation that commenced on August 12, 2017, in relation to the extent of care provided to the registered horse WHOSEME FATHER after it was withdrawn from a race meeting and the circumstances which led to the untimely removal of the horse from the racecourse.
Evidence was heard from trainer John Gatt, Acting Chairman of Stewards at the Newcastle race meeting, G Adams, as well as a report submitted by the attending veterinary surgeon and the transcript of interviews undertaken with the trainer during that evening.
The Stewards established that:
(i) Upon arrival at Newcastle harness meeting on August 12, 2017, licensed trainer Mr John Gatt observed the horse as distressed and advised the Stewards.
(ii) Following an examination by the on-course veterinarian, WHOSEME FATHER was withdrawn from Race 2. HRNSW Stewards commenced an investigation at this time.
(iii) Initial treatment was provided to WHOSEME FATHER by the on-course veterinarian who recommended on at least two occasions to Mr Gatt that the horse should not travel in its condition and should be provided with further treatment, in particular the provision of intravenous fluids.
(iv) The trainer understood the option existed for the horse to be treated at Newcastle Equine Centre until stabilised and fit to travel.
(v) The horse’s condition had not stabilised and it received two further veterinary treatments.
(vi) The on-course veterinarian left WHOSEME FATHER for a short period of time while attending to other raceday duties.
(vii) During this time, Mr Gatt loaded the horse onto the float and despite a further approach from the on course veterinarian, Mr Gatt advised that he intended to take the horse back to Sydney before seeking further veterinary treatment.
(viii) The lapsed time from the initial veterinary examination until the horse’s removal from the race course was (about) 40 minutes.
(ix) Mr Gatt drove WHOSEME FATHER from the Newcastle harness meeting.
(x) The Trainer later reported the horse’s demise, in transit.
Mr Gatt was found guilty of a charge issued by HRNSW Stewards pursuant to Australian Harness Racing Rules (AHRR) Pursuant to AHRR 218 which states: “A person having responsibility for the welfare of a horse shall not fail to care for it properly.”
In respect of the charge, Mr Gatt was disqualified for a period of 15 months to commence immediately. Mr Gatt was provided with a period of time to attend to another horse on his property.
In determining penalty, Stewards gave consideration to the full circumstances and serious nature of the matter, Mr Gatt’s plea of not guilty, no previous welfare related offences during his almost 25-year involvement in the harness racing industry and other personal subjective facts.
The trainer was also afforded some moderation in penalty in recognition that although, in the opinion of Stewards he had failed to provide appropriate care in a timely manner, he had contacted his usual veterinary surgeon whilst in transit.
Mr Gatt was advised of his right to appeal the Stewards decision.
MICHAEL PRENTICE | INTEGRITY MANAGER
(02) 9722 6600 • mprentice@hrnsw.com.au
GRAHAM LOCH | CHAIRMAN OF STEWARDS