Freedman stable fined over multiple rule breaches

Racing NSW stewards have fined co-trainers Richard and Will Freedman a total of $5,800 following a hearing into three separate rule breaches.

The inquiry examined the detection of oxazepam and temazepam in a post-race urine sample taken from Luna Bay after she finished second at a provincial meeting in September, with the Freedmans pleading guilty to the charge.

The training partnership also admitted to a second breach relating to barrier trial requirements, having trialled Orange Tsunami and Vin Santo within eight clear days of the horses receiving intra-articular injections.

A third charge was laid after the stable trained and exercised Zocketman on a racecourse during the mandatory two-month stand-down period following a bleeding attack, without obtaining permission from stewards.

Stewards heard evidence from the Freedman stable, Racing NSW veterinary officer Dr Claire Moore and Australian Racing Forensics Laboratory general manager John Keledjian before handing down the penalties.

The fines reflect the seriousness of the breaches while taking into account the trainers’ guilty pleas and cooperation during the inquiry.

The case serves as a reminder of the strict regulations governing medication, treatment protocols and horse welfare within the racing industry.