The scratching of Orion Love from Randwick because of a possible race-day treatment has ended in a fine for an outburst from trainer Louis Baudron.
The former French trotting trainer is trying to get a foothold in Sydney racing but his lack of treatment records and a suspicious mark on Orion Love’s neck led to the mare’s withdrawal.
Surveillance officers Nick Ryan and Nathan Heywood visited Baudron’s stable on Saturday morning and gained access to the mare’s box which had no visible security.
Ryan took a picture of a discolouration on her neck said it felt oily.
Baudron said he had not treated the mare and as he left the stewards’ room he pointed his finger at Ryan saying: “You are a liar.”
Chief steward Ray Murrihy immediately called him back and slapped him with a charge of improper conduct towards an official.
“It is not acceptable,” Murrihy said, fining Baudron $1000.
Earlier he had stressed how important it was to keep proper records with Orion Love’s history showing no treatment since May.
Baudron said the mare was given a drip on Tuesday but nothing since.
“I’ve done nothing, 100 per cent” Baudron said.
“If I have, I go back to France and you will never see me again.”
Murrihy also warned the trainer the lack of security was a concern and a gate was not enough.
“A closed gate won’t stop any crooks,” he said.
