Queensland stewards have charged Australia’s leading trainer Darren Weir with failing to present Night’s Watch in time to race at Doomben.
Night’s Watch was favourite for Saturday’s Shoot Out Quality but didn’t arrive at Doomben until 22 minutes before the race.
The gelding had arrived in Brisbane from Melbourne at about 3am but there was apparently a mix-up by staff in race times because Queensland is not on daylight saving time.
Chief steward Allan Reardon said he had been in contact with Weir’s manager seeking an explanation.
“We opened an inquiry on Saturday and adjourned it. I have told Weir’s representative we had issued a charge and e-mailed a copy of the charge to them,” Reardon said.
“They have until the end of the week to respond. Then we can make a decision a and if necessary impose a penalty .”
It is likely Weir, if found guilty, will be fined.
The mix-up has already cost owners a substantial amount in wasted air fares and the missed opportunity to qualify for a $1 million race on Magic Millions day.
